Congress Challenges India Tariffs as Bipartisan Pushback Grows

A group of U.S. House lawmakers is moving to reverse steep tariffs on Indian goods. Representatives introduced a resolution on Friday to revoke the national emergency declaration used to impose the duties. This action targets tariffs that have reached 50% on many imports from India.

The legislative effort argues the tariffs are illegal and harmful. It marks a significant congressional challenge to presidential trade authority. According to Reuters, this is part of a wider push to recalibrate U.S. relations with India.

Lawmakers Cite Economic Harm and Strained Alliances

The resolution specifically seeks to rescind a 25% “secondary” duty imposed in late August 2025. This was added to earlier reciprocal tariffs. Combined, these measures have drastically increased costs for American importers of Indian products.

Lawmakers highlighted the direct economic damage to their districts. Congresswoman Deborah Ross noted Indian companies have invested over a billion dollars in North Carolina. This investment supports thousands of local jobs in key industries like technology.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi called the tariffs counterproductive. He stated they disrupt vital supply chains and increase costs for U.S. consumers. Ending the duties, he argued, is crucial for advancing shared economic and security needs with India.

Broader Fight Over Trade Authority Takes Shape

This is not an isolated move. It follows a similar bipartisan Senate measure targeting tariffs on Brazil. The broader goal is to reclaim Congressional authority over trade policy from executive emergency powers.

The dispute originates from actions taken earlier last year. The initial tariffs were levied, citing India’s continued purchases of Russian oil. The administration claimed this indirectly supported conflict in Ukraine, justifying the emergency economic powers.

The political impact is becoming clearer. The tariffs have strained a key strategic partnership. They also function as a tax on American businesses and families already facing economic pressure.

This congressional challenge signals a pivotal moment in U.S. trade policy. The fight over the India tariffs could redefine how emergency powers are used for economic goals. Its outcome will directly affect international supply chains and diplomatic relations.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Q1: Why did the US impose tariffs on India?

The tariffs were initially imposed citing India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. The administration argued this economic activity supported Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine.

Q2: How high are the tariffs now?

Combined tariffs on many Indian-made goods have reached 50%. This includes an initial 25% duty plus a secondary 25% duty imposed later.

Q3: What are lawmakers saying about the tariffs?

Lawmakers leading the resolution call the tariffs illegal and damaging. They say the duties harm American workers, disrupt supply chains, and increase costs for consumers.

Q4: What happens if the resolution passes?

If approved by Congress, the resolution would revoke the national emergency declaration used for the tariffs. This would legally rescind the additional duties imposed under that authority.

Q5: Is this only about India?

No. This is part of a wider congressional effort to challenge presidential trade actions. A similar bipartisan measure has been introduced in the Senate regarding tariffs on Brazil.