US Lawmakers Call for Immediate Reset of India Ties
A coalition of 19 Members of Congress is urging President Donald Trump to take swift steps to repair what they describe as a strained relationship between the United States and India. Led by Congresswoman Deborah Ross and Congressman Ro Khanna, the group argues that the recent tariff hikes have damaged the partnership that plays a crucial role in regional security, trade, and global supply chains.
Tariffs etching a Dividing Line
The letter, dated October 8, 2025, details a tariff policy shift in late August 2025 that raised duties on Indian goods to as high as 50%. The authors characterize this as a punitive measure, combining a 25 percent reciprocal tariff with an additional 25 percent duty tied to India’s energy purchases from Russia. They contend that such moves harm both Indian manufacturers and American consumers, disrupting supply chains essential for U.S. companies to bring products to market.
Why India Matters to the U.S.
Beyond immediate trade figures, the lawmakers emphasize India’s role as a critical partner in the Indo-Pacific region. American manufacturers depend on Indian inputs across varied sectors—from semiconductors and healthcare to energy. They note that American firms investing in India contribute to jobs and economic opportunities at home while leveraging one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.
Economic and Strategic Implications
The letter warns that ongoing tariff escalation could jeopardize these ties, increasing costs for American families and eroding the competitiveness of U.S. companies on the global stage. The lawmakers stress that a sustained tariff war risks driving India closer to other powers, notably China and Russia, which could have long-term strategic consequences in the Indo-Pacific balance.
Indo-Pacific Stability and Democratic Values
In their appeal, the lawmakers frame the relationship with India as more than a trade partnership. They highlight shared democratic values and mutual commitments to openness, freedom, and rule of law. The message underscores that India, as a rising global actor and a stabilizing force in the region, plays a pivotal role in countering assertive moves by rivals and in supporting a rules-based international order.
What They Want from the White House
The core ask is straightforward: reset and repair the U.S.-India relationship. The lawmakers call for consideration of tariff relief and a renewed strategy that strengthens collaboration in trade, technology, energy, and security. They urge President Trump to reaffirm Washington’s commitment to India, arguing that the partnership is essential strategically, economically, and reputationally.
Looking Ahead
As discussions continue, the debate reflects broader questions about how the United States should balance competitive pressures with alliance-building in a rapidly changing global economy. The outcome could shape not only bilateral trade terms but also the broader trajectory of the Indo-Pacific partnership framework, including technology supply chains, defense coordination, and regional diplomacy. The lawmakers’ letter signals a preference for diplomacy and recalibration over unilateral punitive measures, aiming to preserve a durable partnership with one of the world’s largest democracies.
