Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Applauds US Decision to Reduce Tariffs on Indian Goods
In an encouraging development, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his approval of the recent decision by the US government to lower reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods. This decision is expected to provide much-needed relief to numerous exporters in India who have been grappling with challenges due to the increased tariff rates.
The announcement comes after US President Donald Trump revealed on Monday that a trade deal had been reached between India and the US, leading to a reduction in the reciprocal tariff on Indian goods from 25% to 18%. This move is particularly significant for India, given that the US had previously imposed a hefty 50% tariff on Indian goods entering American markets starting from August 27, 2025.
Omar Abdullah highlighted the impact of the tariffs on Indian exports, emphasizing that they had posed significant burdens on the country’s exporters. He noted that the tariffs were initially imposed due to the US’s dissatisfaction with India’s oil purchases from Russia. However, following Trump’s announcement that India had ceased buying oil from Russia, the tariffs would no longer be enforced.
While acknowledging the potential benefits of discontinuing oil purchases from Russia, Abdullah raised concerns about the implications for India’s oil supply and the potential impact on petrol and diesel prices in the country. He emphasized the need to monitor the situation closely to assess any potential price fluctuations resulting from sourcing oil from alternative suppliers.
Addressing the reduction in tariffs, the chief minister underscored its positive impact on Indian exporters, noting that many had been facing significant challenges and even the possibility of closing down their businesses. With the tariffs now reduced, Abdullah expressed optimism that businesses would experience a revival, leading to improved prospects for exporters in the country.
