The article examines the implications of the US Supreme Court's recent decision, which deemed the Trump-era tariffs illegal, causing uncertainty over India's tariff obligations. For years, former President Donald Trump wielded tariffs as a tool impacting global trade dynamics, including the prices on Russian oil and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The initial tariffs imposed on India escalated from 25% to 50% and were eventually negotiated down to 18% as talks progressed on the India-US Trade Deal.

With the Supreme Court striking down these broad tariffs, questions arise regarding the future of trade between India and the US. The US has now imposed a global tariff of 10%, leading to speculation about what rate will apply to India moving forward. Will the tariff return to 18%, as previously agreed upon? Or will it settle at the proposed 10% or an intermediate rate of 13.5%? The article emphasizes India's anxieties surrounding its export tariffs to the US, which are crucial for its economy.

As this situation evolves, the article suggests that India will need to adapt its trade strategies in light of these changes in tariff regulations. The trajectory of India-US trade relations, through fluctuations in tariffs, reflects broader global trade practices and the ongoing adjustments post-Trump administration, influencing economic decisions on both sides.