India’s 150% Duty on U.S. Liquor, 100% on Farm Products Incites White House Alarm

Washington, D.C.: The White House expressed alarm at India‘s imposition of high tariffs on American liquor and farm products, as Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted the effects on U.S. workers and businesses.

Speaking at a press conference, Leavitt condemned India’s 150% duty on American liquor and 100% duty on farm products, saying that these are obstructing fair trade. She further added that Japan charges a 700% duty on rice, and Canada charges almost 300% on American dairy products.

Trump‘s Push for Fair Trade

President Donald Trump, who is famed for his “America First“ trade policies, has consistently insisted on reciprocity in international trade. “All he‘s asking for at the end of the day are fair and balanced trade practices,” Leavitt stated.

She further alleged that Canada has been “ripping off” the U.S. for decades, and tariffs on Mexico and Canada may rise in the future. Trump, in a comment, reaffirmed that the world community has been taking advantage of the U.S. economy, and his government seeks to balance that out.

India Lowers Bourbon and Wine Tariffs Amid Pressure

In a partial victory, the Indian government has recently cut the import tariff on bourbon whiskey to 100% from 150% and reduced tariffs on a few varieties of wines. India, however, continues to charge a 50% basic customs duty on bourbon, in addition to another 50% agricultural cess.

The U.S. shipped $0.8 million worth of bourbon products to India in the past year, which was part of a $2.6 million total Indian market for bourbon imports.

What‘s Next?

As the trade tensions continue and more talks are on the horizon, international trade continues to be unclear. Will the tariff changes India made be sufficient to appease American concerns, or will the Trump administration call for more drastic action?

Stay tuned as we follow the latest news on India-U.S. trade relations.