India Weighs Options to Placate Trump After Shock 25% Tariff

Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump hold a joint news  conference in Washington, DC, in February. — Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump hold a joint news conference in Washington, DC, in February.
Photographer: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

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By Shruti Srivastava and Sudhi Ranjan Sen

July 31, 2025 at 8:37 AM UTC

Updated on

July 31, 2025 at 12:13 PM UTC

India is weighing options to placate the White House, including boosting US imports, and has ruled out immediate retaliation to President Donald Trump’s surprise 25% tariff threat, according to people familiar with the matter.

Officials in New Delhi were shocked and disappointed by Trump’s announcement on Wednesday, the people said, asking not to be identified as the discussions are private. The government is keen to keep bilateral trade talks on track and is exploring ways to increase purchases from its largest trading partner, they said.