White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has raised concerns about the high taxes (tariffs) that some countries impose on American goods, specifically mentioning India’s tariffs on U.S. alcohol and agricultural products.
She pointed out that India has strict trade policies, which include high import taxes of 30-40% on most food and farm products. These trade barriers make it more expensive for American businesses to sell their products in India, affecting trade relations between the two countries.
During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that US President Donald Trump strongly believes in fair and balanced trade practices. She stated that Trump supports the idea of reciprocity, meaning that if other countries impose tariffs on US goods, the US should have the right to respond in the same way.
Leavitt also criticized Canada, accusing it of unfair trade practices that have negatively impacted American businesses and workers for decades. She claimed that Canada has been imposing excessively high tariffs on US products, making it difficult for American industries to compete fairly.
When asked whether Trump plans to speak with Canada’s Prime Minister-designate Mark Carney about these trade issues, Leavitt responded, “The president is reacting to the fact that Canada has been overcharging and taking advantage of the United States for years. If you look at the high tariff rates Canada has placed on American businesses and workers, it is completely unfair.”
She further stressed that the US is committed to ensuring fair trade agreements that protect American industries and workers from being exploited by other countries’ trade policies. The Press Secretary spoke about the high tariffs India and Japan place on US products. She said President Trump is working to protect American businesses and workers by addressing these trade issues.
“I have a chart here showing high tariffs from different countries,” Leavitt said. “For example, Canada puts a nearly 300% tariff on American cheese and butter. India charges a 150% tariff on American alcohol, which makes it hard for Kentucky bourbon to be sold there. They also have a 100% tariff on US agricultural products.”
Leavitt said these high taxes make it tough for American businesses to compete. She added that President Trump wants fair trade policies that support US workers and industries.
Leavitt pointed out Japan’s high tariffs, saying, “Look at Japan, putting a 700% tariff on rice.” She emphasized that President Trump believes in fair trade and is committed to protecting American businesses and workers. “It’s about time we have a president who looks out for American interests,” she added. “All he’s asking for are fair and balanced trade practices, but unfortunately, Canada has not treated the US fairly for decades.”
Meanwhile, under pressure from the United States, India has reduced the import duty on bourbon whiskey from 150% to 100% and lowered tariffs on certain types of wines.
India now imposes a 50% basic customs duty on bourbon imports, along with an additional 50% agricultural cess. Last year, India imported $2.6 million worth of bourbon-related products, with $0.8 million coming from the US.
On Sunday, Trump stated that tariffs on Mexico and Canada could increase in the future. According to Fox News, he claimed that the global community has been taking advantage of the US for years.
You might also be interested in – Trump 2.0 opens White House doors to content creators as ‘new media’ outlets
