United States has imposed steep 50% tariffs on Indian exports after President Donald Trump’s administration announced an additional 25% levy. This move, effective from August 27, has sparked major concerns across Indian industries heavily dependent on the American market.
Sectors such as textiles, seafood, gems and jewellery are facing the sharpest blow, as the US accounts for a sizeable share of their revenues. For instance, nearly 15% of India’s textile exports, valued at $118 billion in 2024, were shipped to the US. Companies like Gokaldas Exports, Indo Count, Pearl Global, KPR Mill and Welspun Living derive between one-fourth and three-fourths of their business from this market.
Industry executives highlight growing pressure from American buyers demanding discounts of 15–20% or shifting production to other countries, threatening a $6 billion export loss and thousands of Indian jobs. The seafood sector is also vulnerable, with firms like Avanti Feeds and Apex Frozen Foods sourcing over half their revenue from US demand.
Chemical players such as SRF, Navin Fluorine and Galaxy Surfactants face risks too, given their sizeable export exposure. While US officials suggest talks could ease tensions, they also insist India must open its markets for meaningful progress.
India’s exporters now brace for costlier trade and uncertain future growth.
