Fresh tariff concerns emerge as Trump expresses confidence in a trade agreement with India and highlights his personal rapport with PM Modi
US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that Washington and New Delhi will soon reach a trade agreement, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a close friend and highlighting the strong relationship between the two leaders.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he remained optimistic about the ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries despite recent tariff-related concerns.
“We will get to a deal because I like your prime minister a lot. He is a good friend of mine, and we get along well. We have a good relationship,” Trump said.
His remarks come just days after the US administration announced plans to impose an additional 12.5 per cent tariff on imports from India and 53 other countries over concerns that certain goods may have been produced using forced labour.
#WATCH | President Donald Trump says, “For years, India took advantage of the United States… They charged us tremendous tariffs and paid nothing… Now it is the exact reverse and we are making a lot of money with India. But we will get to a deal because I like your Prime… pic.twitter.com/IR2x2MqUV5
— ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2026
Trump accuses India of high tariffs
During the interaction, Trump reiterated his long-standing criticism of India’s tariff policies, claiming that India had benefited from trade arrangements with the United States for years.
“For years, India took advantage of the United States. They charged us tremendous tariffs and paid nothing. Now it is the exact reverse, and we are making a lot of money with India,” he said.
The comments came as trade officials from both countries continue discussions on an interim bilateral trade agreement aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and expanding market access.
Earlier this week, a US delegation visited India for negotiations. India’s Commerce Ministry later said the talks were conducted in a constructive atmosphere, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to achieving a mutually beneficial trade arrangement.
Fresh tariff concerns emerge
While negotiations continue, the US administration has unveiled a fresh package of tariffs targeting several major economies, including India, China, Australia, Israel, Japan, Qatar and Russia.
Washington said investigations had found that goods imported from these countries may have links to forced labour practices, prompting the proposed additional duties.
The move has added a new layer of complexity to trade discussions between India and the United States.
Trump raises Harley-Davidson issue again
Trump also revisited the issue of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, a subject he frequently highlighted during his previous term as president.
He argued that steep import duties had historically made it difficult for the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer to compete in the Indian market.
“In the past, they wouldn’t let Harley-Davidson sell its motorcycles. They charged a 200 per cent tariff, so Harley-Davidson was precluded,” Trump said.
He added that the company eventually established manufacturing operations in India due to those barriers.
Contrasting the situation with US trade policies, Trump claimed Indian motorcycle manufacturers had enjoyed unrestricted access to the American market.
“They sold motorbikes here, too. You know how much we charged them? Nothing. And now it’s the exact reverse. We’re making a lot of money with India,” he said.
The remarks come at a crucial stage in bilateral trade negotiations, with both countries seeking to finalise an agreement that could deepen economic ties while addressing longstanding concerns over tariffs and market access.
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No stable relation with US is possible while Trump is in office.