‘Studying Developments’: India Reacts to US Supreme Court Striking Down Trump’s Tariffs

India’s commerce ministry said on Saturday that the government is closely examining recent developments related to US tariffs and assessing their potential impact.

The statement followed a US Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the reciprocal tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration. In a split 6–3 decision, the court held that the president could not levy tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1974 without congressional approval.

“We have noted the US Supreme Court judgment on tariffs,” the commerce ministry said, adding that President Trump had also addressed the matter publicly. “Some steps have been announced by the US administration. We are studying all these developments for their implications.”

Earlier, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the government would review the judgment, noting that any official response would come from the commerce ministry or the ministry of external affairs.

Following the court’s decision, Trump signed an executive order rolling back certain tariff measures and issued a proclamation introducing a temporary import surcharge. Initially set at 10 percent, the surcharge was later raised to 15 percent.

According to the proclamation, the measure was introduced in response to what the administration described as significant international payment challenges, including trade imbalances and financial risks. The surcharge is scheduled to take effect on February 24 and remain in place for up to 150 days, unless modified or extended by Congress.

The order also specifies exemptions for select categories of imports, including certain critical minerals, energy products, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace-related goods.

Indian officials indicated that the government is evaluating the evolving situation and its possible consequences for trade and industry.