US-India Trade Deal: Tensions Rise as Tariffs and Visa Fees Threaten Relations

US-India Trade Relations Under Strain

Democratic Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove has criticized US President Donald Trump's handling of the US-India relationship, warning that his policies could undo years of diplomatic progress. The US has imposed 50% tariffs on India, one of the highest rates on any country, and increased H-1B visa fees, which could harm Indian professionals and the Indian diaspora community.

Impact on Trade and Diplomacy

Kamlager-Dove argued that Trump's policies are driven by personal grievances rather than long-term national interests. She warned that unless Trump changes course, he risks being remembered as the American president who lost India. The India-US trade deal has been elusive, and the Indian rupee has slumped to a record low of 90.48 against the US dollar.

• The Indian stock market remains rangebound as investors await the trade deal.
• The US-India relationship has been impacted by the tariffs and visa fees, which could harm people-to-people ties and trade relations.

H-1B Visa Hike and Its Consequences

The proposed $100,000 fee on H-1B visas has been criticized as a direct attack on the Indian diaspora community and its contributions to American science, technology, medicine, and the arts. Kamlager-Dove argued that this move could harm the US economy and innovation.

Meanwhile, India and the US have resolved most of their outstanding trade issues, and a bilateral trade deal is likely by March, according to Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran. The deal could boost trade relations and economic growth in both countries.

The US-India trade deal is crucial for the global economy and international trade. It is essential for both countries to work together to resolve their differences and strengthen their economic partnership.