A group of 19 US Lawmakers, led by Congresswoman Deborah Ross and Congressman Ro Khanna, have written a letter to US President Donald Trump, urging him to take immediate action in improving America’s relationship with India and also reversing the tariff hike imposed.
The letter was co-signed by several prominent Indian-origin Democratic leaders, including Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Pramila Jayapal. Notably, no Republican lawmakers signed it.
“We write as Members of Congress representing districts with large, vibrant Indian-American communities that maintain strong familial, cultural, and economic ties to India,” the letter said.
It further added, “Recent actions by your administration have strained relations with the world’s largest democracy, creating negative consequences for both countries. We urge you to take immediate steps to reset and repair this critical partnership.”
US Lawmakers call tariffs against India as ‘punitive measures’
The lawmakers noted that in late August 2025, the Trump administration raised tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, combining an initial 25% “reciprocal” tariff with an extra 25% duty in response to India’s energy purchases from Russia. The Congress members said these “punitive measures” were harming Indian manufacturers and American consumers, disrupting supply chains that US companies rely on.
American manufacturers depend on India for key materials, letter notes
The lawmakers highlighted India’s importance as a trading partner, pointing out that American manufacturers depend on India for key materials in sectors like semiconductors, healthcare, and energy. They added, “American firms investing in India also gain access to one of the fastest-growing consumer markets in the world,” and noted that Indian investments in the US have created jobs and economic opportunities.
They warned that continuing the tariffs could “jeopardise these ties,” raise costs for American families, and weaken the competitiveness of US companies globally.
Tariffs could push India closer to China
The letter also warned that the tariffs could push India closer to China and Russia. The lawmakers said this is worrying because India plays a key role in keeping stability in the Indo-Pacific region through its participation in the Quad, and has become an essential partner in countering China’s growing influence.