Surjewala Questions US Tariffs on India, Raises Trade Deal Concerns

Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala has raised concerns over the sustainability and legal applicability of newly announced United States tariffs, questioning whether the measures can be justified in relation to India. His remarks came after US President Donald Trump unveiled fresh trade measures following a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated his earlier tariff authority.

In a detailed statement shared on social media, Surjewala asked whether the new tariff provisions could legally apply to India and whether they would withstand scrutiny over time. He also questioned the potential impact of these measures on the proposed India–US trade framework.

Questions over sustainability and legality

Surjewala highlighted that the new tariff regime includes a 10% duty imposed under Section 122 of the US Trade Act of 1974, along with possible tariffs under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 and Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.

He questioned whether these provisions could be justifiably applied to India and whether they would remain sustainable in the long run.

The Congress leader noted that Section 122 allows a tariff increase for up to 150 days unless extended by the US Congress, suggesting the measure may be temporary in nature. He asked whether the US legislature would approve an extension.

National security and trade practice provisions

Addressing Section 232, which permits tariffs in the interest of national security following an investigation, Surjewala argued that Indian exports do not pose any security threat to the United States.

He also referred to Section 301, which allows tariffs after investigations into unfair trade practices or violations of trade agreements. According to him, no such investigation has been conducted against India, raising questions about the applicability of this provision.

Impact on India–US trade agreement

Surjewala further questioned whether the new tariff framework could affect the proposed India–US trade agreement currently under negotiation. He said the framework has already drawn criticism from farmers, small businesses, energy experts, and economists, who fear it may disadvantage domestic interests.

He asked whether the new tariff structure would alter the terms of the agreement and whether the government should reconsider its position if the deal becomes one-sided.

Call to safeguard national interests

The Congress leader concluded by urging the government to ensure that India’s national interests are protected in ongoing trade negotiations with the United States. He called for a careful reassessment of the evolving tariff framework and its implications for Indian exporters and domestic industries.

The remarks come amid continuing uncertainty over US tariff policies and their potential impact on global trade. As negotiations progress, clarity on tariff structures and legal frameworks is expected to be crucial for businesses and policymakers on both sides.