Topic
import duties
Trump Imposes Fresh Tariffs on 60 Economies Over Forced Labour; India Gets 10% Duty
US President Donald Trump imposed new Section 301 tariffs on imports from 60 economies over forced labour concerns, effective July 24, 2026. India is among 17 economies that will face a lower 10% tariff instead of the proposed 12.5% duty. The action follows USTR investigations launched on March 12, 2026.
US Section 301 Tariffs Unlikely to Hit India's Exports, Textiles Need Close Watch, Says FIEO Chief
The US announced Section 301 tariffs of 10% and 12.5% on 60 economies on July 24, 2026, with India placed in the lower 10% category. FIEO chief Sahai stated the tariffs are unlikely to impact India's overall exports but noted that textiles need close watch as India was excluded from the textile TRQ exemption granted to some competitors. Products under Section 232 remain unaffected.
Trump's Phased Tariff Plan on Generic Drugs: 0% for Two Years, Then Up to 200%
President Donald Trump announced a phased tariff plan on imported generic medicines, with zero tariffs for two years from August 1, 2026, followed by 100% for one year and 200% thereafter. The move targets India, which exported $9.7 billion in pharmaceuticals to the US in 2025, accounting for 38% of its total pharma exports. Indian generics supply 47% of US prescriptions and saved the US healthcare system $219 billion in 2022.
Trade Downstream aluminium industry urges duty cut on primary aluminium and scrap to restore competitiveness
Downstream aluminium manufacturers have urged the Centre to reduce customs duty on primary aluminium and aluminium scrap, stating the current duty structure is hurting MSME competitiveness. In a joint representation to the mines ministry, industry bodies cited an effective import duty of 8.25% on primary aluminium and 2.75% on scrap, which has compressed margins by up to 70% and pushed input costs up 20-35% in the last three months. The associations also flagged the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism as a future threat.
US companies warn higher tariffs may undermine domestic manufacturing push
Top US companies including Intel, Dell, and Honeywell have warned the USTR that its proposed additional tariffs of up to 12.5% on 60 countries, including India, would increase costs for consumers and businesses and undermine the administration's goal of expanding domestic manufacturing. Several firms are seeking exemptions for specific products.
Trade Flexport: New Tariff Wave Could Replace Expiring Trade Duties by Late July
According to FreightWaves, Flexport executives warned that a new round of tariffs, including proposed Section 301 forced-labor duties, could replace expiring Section 122 tariffs by July 24. The comments came during Flexport's 'Tariff Trends 2026' webinar, where customs director Marcus Eeman outlined potential tariff changes, USMCA challenges, and legal battles ahead.
India Panel to Weigh Extension of Duty Cuts on Critical Inputs, Fresh Tariffs on
An inter-ministerial panel will meet next week to consider extending import duty cuts on critical inputs that expire this month-end, alongside proposals for fresh tariffs on select electronics and relief for pharma and steel sectors. The government also granted a retrospective customs duty waiver for nuclear power imports.
Trade U.S. Imposes Tariffs on 60 Nations for Forced Labor Failures
The United States has announced new tariffs up to 12.5% on 60 countries failing to curb forced labor in export goods. This move aims to protect U.S. businesses from unfair competition.
U.S. Proposes 25% Tariff on Brazil Amid Trade Tensions
The U.S. Trade Representative has proposed a 25% tariff on Brazilian goods, excluding key items, following an investigation into Brazil's trade practices. This move aims to address unfair practices and replace a previously invalidated 50% tariff.
Trade Telangana Advocates for Higher Crude Palm Oil Duty
Telangana has requested the Indian government to increase the import duty on crude palm oil from 16.50% to 44% to support domestic production. The state, leading in palm oil cultivation, argues that higher duties will benefit local farmers.