Trump slams India-U.S. trade ties as a “one-sided disaster” after Modi’s China visit, deepening tensions with Beijing. Trump’s sharp words highlight trade imbalance, tariffs, and shifting global alliances with China.
WebDesk — President Donald Trump on Monday sharply escalated his criticism of India, calling U.S.-India trade relations “a totally one-sided disaster” after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said New Delhi had “now offered to cut tariffs to nothing,” but warned the offer was “too late” and should have been made “years ago.” His remarks follow Washington’s imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports, including secondary duties of 25% last month, targeting India’s purchase of Russian oil.
“India has charged us the highest tariffs of any country, making it impossible for our businesses to compete. This has been a totally one-sided disaster!” Trump wrote.
The comments come as Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tianjin over the weekend, affirming a partnership approach despite decades of mistrust between the two Asian powers. The timing of Trump’s remarks has fueled speculation that New Delhi’s warming relations with Beijing could further complicate Washington’s trade strategy.
According to World Trade Organization data, India imposed an average tariff of 6.2% on U.S. imports in 2024, while the United States levied 2.4% on Indian goods. Trump has repeatedly cited the disparity as evidence of unfair trade practices.
India has pushed back, calling the U.S. tariffs “unfair and unjustified.” Its foreign ministry last month accused Western nations of hypocrisy, pointing to their continued trade with Russia while criticizing India for energy purchases from Moscow.
Analysts warn that closer India-China ties may undercut U.S. efforts to isolate Beijing globally. “The U.S. is losing the propaganda battle to portray China as the sole troublemaker,” said Marko Papic, chief strategist at GeoMacro Strategy BCA Access.
Despite the tensions, experts remain skeptical that India and China will evolve into close allies, citing long-standing border disputes and strategic rivalries. Still, Trump’s rhetoric underscores the growing strain on Washington’s two-decade push to deepen ties with New Delhi.
