The Lok Sabha is witnessing heated debates surrounding the recent imposition of additional tariffs by former U.S. President Donald Trump on Indian goods. The opposition is up in arms, demanding a thorough discussion on the implications of this move and seeking immediate government intervention.
Opposition's Concerns
Several opposition leaders have voiced strong concerns over Trump's decision to raise tariffs on Indian goods by an additional 25%, bringing the total tariff to 50%. This action, which the U.S. President has attributed to India's continued purchase and resale of Russian oil, has been widely criticized as unfair and politically motivated. Congress MP Hibi Eden moved an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha to press for a detailed discussion on the matter.
The opposition's primary concern revolves around the potential damage to India's marine exports, particularly the shrimp industry, which earned $4.88 billion in 2024-25, constituting 66% of total seafood exports. They argue that the new tariffs, coupled with lower tariffs and geographical proximity enjoyed by competitors like Ecuador and Guatemala, will significantly impact India's competitiveness in the U.S. market.
Rahul Gandhi, a prominent Congress leader, has labeled Trump's tariffs as "economic blackmail" aimed at coercing India into an unfair trade deal. He has urged Prime Minister Modi to stand firm and not compromise the interests of the Indian people. Other opposition MPs have echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for a unified stance against what they perceive as bullying tactics. Samajwadi Party MP Ramgopal Yadav warned of the global impact of Trump's actions, stressing the need for affected countries to devise a joint strategy.
Government's Response
The Indian government has termed the additional tariffs as "unfortunate," reiterating that the measures are unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable. The Ministry of External Affairs has asserted that India will take all necessary actions to protect its interests, emphasizing that the country's imports are based on market factors and are part of an overall objective of ensuring energy security.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented an explanatory statement in the Lok Sabha regarding the Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025. The government is also slated to consider The National Sports Governance Bill, 2025, The National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and The Indian Ports Bill, 2025.
Other Parliamentary Business
Besides the tariff debate, the Lok Sabha is also engaged in other legislative business. The Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was introduced. The Rajya Sabha is considering and passing The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2025, which aims to consolidate laws governing coastal shipping and promote domestic participation for national security and commercial interests.
Disruptions and Adjournments
The ongoing Monsoon session of Parliament has been marked by disruptions and adjournments. Opposition members have been protesting and demanding discussions on various issues, including the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar. These disruptions have, at times, stalled normal proceedings and led to repeated adjournments of both houses.
Call for Intervention
In light of the potential economic fallout from the U.S. tariffs, the opposition is urging the government to take immediate steps to mitigate the damage. Suggestions include launching an Export Promotion Mission, offering special financial packages to affected exporters, and ensuring strong support from Indian banks to help firms withstand the economic shock. Timely resolution is also sought for shipments already in transit and now facing uncertainty.
