New Delhi: The Indian government is examining the implications of a recent US Supreme Court ruling that struck down former President Donald Trump’s global tariff policy, even as Trump announced a temporary 10 per cent import levy set to take effect from February 24.
Officials said India is closely monitoring developments in the United States following the court’s 6–3 judgment, which held that the president had exceeded his authority in imposing the global tariffs.
Despite the ruling, Trump declared that a 10 per cent additional duty would be levied on imports for a period of 150 days. The temporary measure, according to his announcement, will come into force on February 24.
Addressing concerns regarding bilateral trade ties, Trump stated that the India–US trade agreement would remain unaffected. “Nothing changes. They’ll be paying tariffs, and we will not be paying tariffs. The India deal is on,” he said.
Under the newly announced measure, a 10 per cent additional duty will apply to imports, although several categories of goods have been exempted. Items not subject to the levy include critical minerals, energy products, agricultural commodities, pharmaceuticals, electronics, passenger vehicles and aerospace components.
The development follows earlier adjustments to reciprocal tariffs between India and the United States. Previously, tariff rates had been reduced from 25 per cent to 18 per cent as part of trade discussions between the two countries.
The US Supreme Court’s decision marked a significant legal setback to the earlier global tariff framework. In its 6–3 ruling, the court determined that the president had overstepped statutory authority in implementing the sweeping tariff measures.
In light of these developments, Indian authorities are studying both the legal outcome and the impact of the temporary levy announced by Trump. Officials are assessing how the decision and the revised tariff structure could affect bilateral trade flows and specific sectors covered by the exemptions.
The exemptions announced under the temporary duty cover key segments of trade between the two nations, including pharmaceuticals and electronics, which are significant components of India’s exports to the United States. Energy products and critical minerals, which play an important role in industrial supply chains, are also not included in the additional levy.
While Trump’s remarks suggested continuity in the India–US trade deal, Indian officials have indicated that they are undertaking a detailed review before making further statements. The focus remains on understanding the practical implications of the court’s ruling and the scope of the 150-day tariff measure.
The situation remains under observation as both governments assess the evolving trade environment. Further clarity is expected once the temporary levy comes into effect and its operational details are fully examined.
