Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday called for a tougher trade stance against the United States, suggesting that India should impose a 100% tariff on American goods in response to Washington’s 50% tariff on Indian exports.
“If US President Donald Trump has imposed a 50% tariff, we should impose a 100% tariff on America,” Kejriwal said at a press conference, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of succumbing to U.S. pressure. “Trump has bowed before countries that stood firmly against him. I don’t know what compulsions PM Modi has that he remains silent.”
The AAP chief also hit out at the Centre for removing the 11% import duty on American cotton, calling the decision a betrayal of Indian farmers. According to him, the duty waiver—effective from August 19 to September 30, 2025—has made U.S. cotton around ₹15–20 per kg cheaper than Indian produce, leaving domestic farmers vulnerable.
“Our farmers’ cotton will start coming to the market from October, but by then, textile industries would have already bought cheaper American cotton. Where will Indian farmers sell their crop? This is a direct attack on their livelihood,” Kejriwal warned.
The Ministry of Finance, however, defended the move, stating it was aimed at ensuring adequate supply for the textile industry and boosting exports. Initially announced as a temporary relief from August 19 to September 30, the exemption has now been extended until December 31, 2025.
Despite the government’s justification, Kejriwal reiterated his demand for the immediate reinstatement of the 11% import duty on U.S. cotton, accusing the Centre of acting under Washington’s influence. “This decision has been taken behind the farmers’ back. It must be reversed to protect their survival,” he said.
