Global trade watchers are glued to developments as India postpones key discussions with the US on an interim bilateral trade framework. Triggered by a US Supreme Court bombshell and President Trump’s tariff retort, the decision prioritizes strategic review over haste.
Originally locked for February 23—a three-day affair in Washington helmed by top envoys—the meeting is deferred. Insiders note the catalyst: Friday’s court verdict, where six justices outvoted three to strike Trump’s tariff blitz as unconstitutional. Invoking the 1977 IEEPA for widespread duties on inbound goods crossed executive bounds, they ruled.
Trump hit back swiftly on Truth Social, elevating global tariffs to 15% amid fiery rhetoric. ‘After reviewing this absurd anti-US decision, I’m raising the 10% baseline to a solid 15% on countries ripping us off,’ he posted, eyes on long-term inequities.
New Delhi’s stance is measured. Confirming the shift, an official said India’s negotiators will hold off on travel. ‘Current focus: evaluating court effects and tariff shifts bilaterally,’ they noted. Renewed talks await an optimal slot.
This interlude tests the resilience of India-US economic ties, forged amid shifting sands. Trump’s post-ruling fury with governors hints at more maneuvers ahead. As analyses unfold, the interim pact’s fate could signal broader trade war dynamics, urging both giants toward adaptive strategies.