Four Days to Tariffs: India’s Calm Pushback Against Trump’s Pressure

By Sanjeev Oak

With just four days left before Donald Trump’s tariff deadline on India, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has sent an unambiguous signal: New Delhi will not bend to pressure—whether on trade, oil purchases, or foreign policy choices.

A Clear Message Before the Deadline

In New Delhi, the timing was no accident. As Trump’s August 27 deadline looms, Jaishankar bluntly stated: “Don’t buy into it.” His words, aimed as much at Washington as at India’s domestic audience, were meant to underline confidence in India’s economic and strategic direction.

“We are not a nation that will be swayed by deadline diplomacy.”

This clarity comes amid heightened anxiety over possible US tariff hikes on Indian exports—particularly IT services, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. These sectors together account for over $120 billion in exports annually, making India a major target for Trump’s protectionist rhetoric.

Strategic Autonomy at Stake

India’s stance goes beyond economics. By refusing to be boxed into Washington’s binary of “friend or foe,” Jaishankar reiterated the doctrine of strategic autonomy.

 “India will decide what serves Indian interests—no one else will.”

This assertion also touches on the contentious issue of Russian oil. Despite US unease, India imported over 1.7 million barrels per day from Russia in July 2025, nearly 40% of its crude basket. The economics are undeniable: Russian oil remains 25–30% cheaper than alternatives.

The Trump Factor: Pressure or Bluff?

Trump has repeatedly threatened tariffs to force India into trade concessions. Yet, past experience suggests his threats often morph into bargaining tools rather than outright punishments. During his first term, despite sharp rhetoric, bilateral trade grew steadily—from $126 billion in 2017 to $160 billion in 2020.

The real question: is Trump ready to risk alienating India at a time when Washington wants New Delhi as a counterweight to Beijing?

 “For Trump, tariffs are not just economics—they are leverage.”

India’s Calculated Confidence

Jaishankar’s calm but firm tone reflects New Delhi’s growing leverage. India’s GDP is projected to grow at 6.7% in 2025, making it the fastest-growing major economy. Exports crossed $776 billion in FY2024-25, and foreign exchange reserves stand at a healthy $659 billion.

This resilience provides India with the confidence to push back against external pressure, particularly from allies whose interests don’t always align with its own.

Beyond Tariffs: The Global Context

Trump’s tariff threats arrive at a moment of flux in global trade. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has warned of slowing global growth, with world merchandise trade volume expected to grow just 2.6% in 2025. For India, which seeks to expand its manufacturing exports under the ‘Make in India’ drive, such disruptions could cut both ways—hurting markets but also opening new opportunities.

Jaishankar’s message, therefore, was not just defensive. It was a reminder that India intends to shape the trade narrative, not merely react to it.

The Road Ahead

In the coming days, the focus will shift to Washington’s final call. A tariff announcement would certainly strain relations, but New Delhi seems prepared. If Trump backs off, Jaishankar’s firm posture will be seen as vindicated.

Either way, the signal is unmistakable: India will not buy into pressure politics.

 “India is not in the business of buying narratives—it is in the business of building its own.”