Donald Trump Calls Modi A ‘Better Negotiator’ Amid Trade Disputes

During a press conference following bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Donald Trump admitted that Modi was a ‘much tougher negotiator’ than him, especially in trade discussions.

Trump stated “He is a much tougher negotiator than me. He is a better negotiator than me. There is not even a contest,”

Trump Criticizes India’s ‘High Tariffs’ & Proposes Reciprocal Tariffs

Trump reiterated his long-standing criticism of India’s trade policies, calling it “just about the highest tariff nation anywhere in the world.” He argued that US businesses face strong trade barriers when selling to India.

“It’s very hard to sell into India because they have trade barriers, very strong tariffs,” he said, referencing the $98.4 billion US trade deficit.

To counteract these tariffs, Trump proposed a reciprocal tariff system, stating, “Whatever India charges (on US imports), we’re charging them. It’s only fair.” He signed a memorandum directing officials to create a tariff plan within 180 days.

Harley Davidson Tariff Dispute Resurfaces

Trump revisited one of his longstanding trade grievances-India’s tariffs on Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

“Harley Davidson couldn’t sell their motorbikes in India because of the fact that (in) India, the tax was so high,” he stated, adding that the company had to build a factory in India to avoid the tariffs.

However, White House documents inaccurately claimed India levied a 100% tariff on US motorcycles when India had already reduced it to 30% for heavier models and 40% for others in its latest budget.

Future of US-India Trade Relations

With Trump pushing for reciprocal tariffs and Modi standing firm on negotiations, US-India trade tensions may intensify in the coming months.

The final tariff plan, expected within six months, could significantly impact bilateral trade policies.

Also Read: India Rejects Trump’s Offer To Mediate China Border Dispute: Focuses On Bilateral Approach