US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that India has agreed to significantly reduce tariffs on American goods, a move that could have broad implications for trade relations between the two nations. Trump, who has often criticised India for imposing what he called “massive tariffs” on US imports, hailed the decision as a major step toward balancing trade.
The announcement sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with users expressing both excitement and concern over the potential impact of lower import duties on American goods in India.
One X user, in a sarcastic take on the situation, tweeted, “As of now, my life’s gonna be a luxury as I can drive a Harley in the morning and a Tesla in the evening at a cheaper price, have almonds, apples, chickpeas, lentils, and walnuts at much cheaper prices, wear cheaper high-quality imported footwear, and have a bottle of American bourbon whiskey from several prominent US bourbon brands like Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Woodford Reserve, JD Jack Daniels. Trump did what Modi ji couldn’t, Trump is my President.”
As of now, my life’s gonna be a luxury as I can drive a Harley in morning and a Tesla in evening at cheaper price, have almonds, apples, chickpeas, lentils, and walnuts at much cheaper price, wear a cheaper high quality imported footware, have a bottle of American bourbon whiskey… https://t.co/eVk6okYRiX
— Vishal Vardhan (@microcp2mltibgr) March 8, 2025
The sarcastic tweet reflected the user’s skepticism about the impact of such a move, hinting at the possible adverse effects on Indian industries. The user further commented, “Really a master stroke. Can’t wait to see all Indian companies getting impacted who are into these sectors. Along with stocks, now I have options to buy Harley, Tesla, and many more things with the same cash.”
Another user, however, took a more critical stance on the economic implications of reduced tariffs. “Yes, the forex reserves will go down drastically, so will sovereign rating and interest rates will get higher, everything gets expensive, companies report lower profits, India story goes for a toss. Last me na Tesla ka paisa bachega na chappal ka. We need tariffs—we’re a small economy,” they argued.
The country’s domestic automobile, footwear, and agriculture sectors, which have long benefited from protective duties, may face increased competition from American brands. However, for Indian consumers, lower tariffs could mean access to premium products at more competitive prices.
As reactions pour in from various quarters, it remains to be seen how this trade shift will play out in the long run—whether it will be a win-win for both nations or lead to challenges for Indian businesses trying to compete with American imports.
