Trump says India ready to scrap tariffs on US imports

US President Donald Trump has said that India has proposed to drop tariffs on US goods, as the Asian nation seeks an agreement on import taxes.

Speaking on May 15 at an event with business leaders in Qatar, Trump said the Indian government has “offered us a deal where basically they are willing to literally charge us no tariff,” Caliber.Az reports, citing Western media.

Trump did not offer further details of New Delhi’s apparent offer and the Indian government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The US president also said he spoke with Apple Inc. Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook to discourage him from expanding production in India.

“I said I don’t want you building in India,” Trump said about a conversation he said he had with Cook.

As a result of their discussion, Trump said Apple will be “upping their production in the United States.”

Trade relations between the United States and India have long been marked by complexities, with tariffs and import duties frequently becoming sticking points in negotiations. India, as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies, has historically maintained higher tariffs on certain imported goods to protect domestic industries, which has been a concern for U.S. exporters seeking greater access to the Indian market.

Following Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. president in November 2024, his administration renewed its focus on reshaping international trade policies to prioritise American industry and manufacturing. A key element of Trump’s second term agenda has been the pursuit of more favourable trade agreements that reduce barriers for U.S. exporters while encouraging companies to invest and produce domestically.

Trade relations with India, a major emerging market and a crucial geopolitical partner in Asia, have remained a strategic priority. Since the start of 2025, multiple media outlets reported that the Trump administration intensified negotiations with New Delhi to address longstanding issues around tariffs and market access.  

By Khagan Isayev