No matter how much you try to save one thing, something else always takes the hit. The recent 25% tariff slapped on India by US President Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through the export industry—and not in a good way. Despite claims that Indian companies would barely feel the pinch, exporters are now nervously eyeing possible order cancellations and shipment delays. It’s like watching a domino chain reaction unfold across the global trade floor.
Trump’s tariff fever seems to have crossed every red line, turning trade ties into a tug-of-war. Markets are jittery, importers and exporters alike are scrambling, and the world’s interconnected economies are feeling the ripple effects. This isn’t just about one country losing—it’s a reminder of how tightly knit global commerce truly is, and how one move can trigger a cascade impacting many.
Indian exporters now face serious headwinds as August 1 rolled in with this heavy tariff. Key sectors fear disruptions, while orders hang in the balance. The big question: will this tariff domino topple more than just numbers on a balance sheet? Stay tuned as we dive into the unfolding trade drama shaking up industries worldwide.
US Tariffs Shake Indian Exporters — Government Scrambles To Save the Day!
Indian exporters are feeling the heat after the US slapped a hefty 25% tariff on their goods starting August 1, 2025. Cue the panic! Orders risk cancellation, especially in textiles, steel, engineering, and agriculture. Exporters didn’t waste time — they marched straight to Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, asking for quick relief like an Export Promotion Mission and better financial support.
Here’s the kicker: Pakistani basmati rice now has a sweet 6% price edge over Indian rice in the US market. Ouch! That’s a big threat to India’s market share.
But don’t lose hope yet! PM Narendra Modi and Minister Goyal are on it, promising to protect farmers and small industries. The government is busy brainstorming fresh strategies, eyeing new markets, and working hard behind the scenes to keep India’s export game strong. Stay tuned — the export saga is far from over!
Key Export Sectors Hit By US Tariffs
- Textiles and Garments:
Indian textile exporters like Welspun Living, Gokaldas Exports, Indo Count, and Trident heavily depend on the U.S., which accounts for 40%-70% of their sales. The new 25% tariff puts their competitive edge at risk, potentially causing order cancellations and delays, impacting overall revenues. - Gems and Jewellery:
The gems and jewellery sector exports over $9 billion worth of goods to the U.S. This 25% tariff, added to existing challenges, threatens to reduce orders significantly, possibly resulting in job losses and a slowdown in an industry crucial for India’s economy and employment. - Seafood and Agriculture:
India’s seafood exports, especially shrimp from Odisha, rely heavily on the U.S. market, which makes up over 30% of these exports. The tariff risks shrinking this vital market share, endangering coastal livelihoods and the economic health of the seafood export industry.
How Much Will It Cost Us? The Hidden Economic Punch Behind Trump’s Tariff Move
Here’s the big question everyone’s asking: how much will this 25% US tariff really cost India? Economists say — brace yourself — it’s no small hit. Add in the extra penalties tied to India’s defense and energy ties with Russia, and the picture gets more serious.
Experts estimate India could see a GDP drop of up to $30 billion. That’s about 0.7% of the country’s projected $4.3 trillion economy in 2025. Yes, that’s a chunk big enough to shake policy circles and boardrooms alike.
So what does it mean for you? Higher prices, slowed exports, and possibly fewer job opportunities in key sectors. While the government is already working behind the scenes to cushion the blow, the next few months will be crucial.
Stay tuned — this isn’t just a trade war headline, it’s a full-blown economic subplot worth watching closely.
(With Inputs)
Aishwarya is a journalism graduate with over three years of experience thriving in the buzzing corporate media world. She’s got a knack for decoding business news, tracking the twists and turns of the stock market, covering the masala of the entertainment world, and sometimes her stories come with just the right sprinkle of political commentary. She has worked with several organizations, interned at ZEE and gained professional skills at TV9 and News24, And now is learning and writing at NewsX, she’s no stranger to the newsroom hustle. Her storytelling style is fast-paced, creative, and perfectly tailored to connect with both the platform and its audience. Moto: Approaching every story from the reader’s point of view, backing up her insights with solid facts.
Always bold with her opinions, she also never misses the chance to weave in expert voices, keeping things balanced and insightful. In short, Aishwarya brings a fresh, sharp, and fact-driven voice to every story she touches.
