India Faces Fresh US Tariff Threat As Lawmakers Propose 100% Duties On Russia Trade Partners

India is facing a potential tariff threat from the United States as lawmakers introduce amendments to a Russia sanctions bill that could allow President Donald Trump to impose 100% duties on countries trading with Moscow. The proposed changes have sparked differing opinions among US lawmakers. One amendment aims to identify Russia's major trading partners, which includes India, while another seeks to eliminate the provision that empowers the President to impose secondary tariffs.

Democratic Congressman Steny Hoyer has submitted an amendment that would specifically list India among the countries that could face 100% tariffs if they do business with Russia. On the other hand, Democratic Congressman Gregory Meeks has proposed removing Section 113 of the bill, which grants the President authority to impose secondary tariffs.

The legislation, called the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, targets Russia's leadership, energy sector, and vessels involved in its oil trade. The bill has already been approved by the US Senate, but it needs to pass the House of Representatives before it can be presented to President Trump for approval. The United States claims that Russia's oil revenues enable its military operations in Ukraine, making countries like India and China potential targets for the proposed tariffs.

The outcome of the proposed amendment naming India remains uncertain as it will depend on the House vote and subsequent decisions on the legislation.