New Delhi, August 22, 2025 –
A major twist in global trade relations unfolded after the United States, led by President Donald Trump, imposed massive 50% tariffs on India over its continued imports of Russian oil. The move has triggered sharp criticism not only in India but also from China, which described the action as a “threat” and vowed to stand firmly by New Delhi during this crisis.
Why the Tariffs Were Imposed
According to Washington, the decision was taken to punish India for maintaining strong oil trade ties with Moscow despite ongoing Western sanctions related to the Russia-Ukraine war. Previously, India faced a *25% base tariff, but Trump’s administration has now added another **25% penalty tariff, taking the total to 50%. These rules will take effect from *August 27, 2025, making it one of the toughest trade measures the US has enforced against India in recent years.
China’s Strong Reaction
China’s ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, strongly condemned the US action, calling it an act of intimidation.
“When you remain silent before a bully, he grows stronger. That’s why China is standing firmly with India at this crucial moment,” he said in a press briefing.
He further argued that using tariffs as weapons violates the UN Charter and World Trade Organization (WTO) principles. On August 7, the ambassador had already warned against Washington’s “coercive trade policies” through a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
The Oil Trade Dispute
What has surprised many observers is that *China imports far more Russian oil than India, yet Washington has avoided targeting Beijing. Data from June 2025 shows that **China accounted for 47% of Russian oil exports, while India stood at *38%. Despite this, India and Brazil have been singled out, sparking questions about the US administration’s real motives.
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed surprise at the decision, stating:
“India is not the largest buyer of Russian oil after 2022. Several other countries have increased their imports more significantly. Targeting India alone raises serious concerns about fairness.”
China Sees an Opportunity
Analysts believe Beijing is using this dispute as a chance to strengthen ties with New Delhi. Earlier this month, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited India and held talks with Jaishankar. Continuing the same spirit, Ambassador Xu highlighted the importance of India-China cooperation:
“Both India and China are leading developing nations. If we stand united, we can act as twin engines for Asia and contribute positively to global stability.”
Global and Strategic Implications
This development is expected to have a long-term impact on India-US relations while potentially opening new avenues of India-China cooperation, despite ongoing border tensions. Experts warn that Washington’s unilateral trade approach could reshape global alliances, especially in Asia, where economic and strategic partnerships are becoming increasingly important.
Key Highlights
- US imposes 50% tariffs on Indian imports effective August 27, 2025.
- Washington cites India’s Russian oil purchases as the reason.
- China condemns US action, calls it “intimidation” and offers support to India.
- China imports more Russian oil than India but faces no similar tariffs.
- India’s Foreign Minister Jaishankar questions the fairness of Washington’s move.
- Analysts say this could strengthen India-China economic cooperation.
- Potential long-term strain in India-US relations expected.