India is preparing a potential tariff response under World Trade Organization rules following the US decision to double steel and aluminum import duties to 50%. The Indian Finance Ministry announced that New Delhi may impose countermeasures on US goods valued at $3.82 billion, citing an estimated $7.6 billion impact on Indian exports caused by the American tariffs introduced by the Trump administration.

India previously signaled similar intentions last May, when it proposed retaliatory tariffs on specific US items to offset a $1.91 billion hit to its metals sector. The government emphasized that its list of targeted goods and proposed duty rates remains flexible and subject to change based on evolving circumstances. The measures could also involve suspending trade concessions or WTO commitments.

This response comes amid continued negotiations between India and the US on both short- and long-term trade strategies, with an Indian delegation scheduled to visit Washington next week.

Meanwhile, India’s trade data reveals a sharp slowdown in the metals sector. Imports of rolled products fell by 27.6% year-on-year to 0.9 million tons, while exports declined 18.1% to 0.8 million tons. Belgium emerged as the leading supplier of rolled steel to India during the period, underscoring shifting trade dynamics.