New Delhi, India — India will not “bow down” to external pressure but will instead pursue new markets despite steep tariffs recently imposed by the United States, Trade Minister Piyush Goyal has declared.
Goyal made the remarks on Friday while addressing a construction industry gathering in New Delhi, his first public response since Washington introduced 50 percent levies on a range of Indian goods. The tariffs, which took effect this week, are part of US President Donald Trump’s renewed strategy to pressure New Delhi over its continued purchase of Russian oil amid the Ukraine war.
“India will neither bow down nor ever appear weak. We will move forward together and capture new markets,” Goyal asserted.
The trade minister stressed that India remains open to free trade agreements with willing partners, but maintained that the government would not compromise its sovereignty or economic resilience under duress.
The US tariffs — described by New Delhi as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable” — have heightened tensions between the two countries, with trade negotiations stumbling over agriculture and dairy market access.
Analysts warn the new duties, which they liken to a trade embargo, could hit small and medium exporters hardest. Already, industries such as textiles, seafood, and jewelry have reported cancelled US orders and increased competition from rivals like Bangladesh and Vietnam, sparking fears of job losses.
Despite these challenges, Goyal expressed optimism about India’s export outlook, revealing that new policy measures will soon be announced to support key sectors.
“I can say with confidence that India’s exports this year will surpass last year’s figures,” he said.
The United States remained India’s largest export destination in 2024, accounting for $87.3 billion in shipments.
By Adeola Olaniya | August 30, 2025
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