New Delhi: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has strongly criticized the US government's decision to impose an additional 25% import duty on Indian goods, calling it “completely unreasonable” and warning that it could severely harm India’s economy. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Tharoor said the move—announced just ahead of its implementation—was a damaging step that threatens ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries.

The penalties, reportedly in response to India’s purchases of oil and defense equipment from Russia, could go as high as 35% or even 45%, Tharoor warned. He added that if implemented fully, the tariff hike could cause a dramatic drop in Indian exports, which currently total around $87-90 billion to the US, potentially shaving off half a percent from India’s GDP.

Tharoor emphasized that India cannot sacrifice the livelihoods of its 700 million agricultural workers to appease the US. He pointed out that India's average tariff rate of 17% is reasonable and that American goods are often not competitively priced in the Indian market. He urged the US to understand India's domestic needs rather than pressure the country through aggressive trade tactics.

Reiterating his support for India's negotiators, Tharoor said flexibility in talks is acceptable to a point, but national interest must remain the top priority. He expressed concern that such tariff moves, especially as talks continue, could destabilize global trade and set a dangerous precedent for future relations.