As India and the United States prepare for bilateral trade negotiations, reports indicate that U.S. President Donald Trump is considering imposing additional tariffs on rice imports from India. Media sources suggest that the move comes in response to complaints from American farmers that cheap foreign goods are affecting domestic producers.
A roundtable meeting was held at the White House to initiate a $12 billion bailout package for U.S. farmers. Speaking at the session, Trump said the administration is reviewing claims that several countries are dumping low-cost rice into the U.S. market. Several farmers attending the meeting argued that subsidized imports are harming American markets and lowering domestic prices, urging strict action. Trump indicated that tariffs could be used as a tool to address these concerns and also referenced imports of fertilizers from Canada.
Merrill Kennedy, CEO of a rice mill, highlighted India, Thailand, and China as the primary countries exporting rice at low prices to the U.S., noting that Chinese products are even entering Puerto Rico, a market where U.S. producers have not exported rice for years. Trump noted that existing tariffs are effective but suggested that they could be increased further. Farmers recommended tighter controls on foreign imports to protect domestic production.
President Trump directed U.S. Trade Secretary Scott Bessent to submit a list of countries whose exports are negatively affecting American farmers. Bessent confirmed India, Thailand, and China are among the top countries and promised a complete list soon, with immediate action planned. The announcement comes ahead of the India–U.S. trade talks scheduled to begin in New Delhi on December 10. The U.S. delegation will be led by Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer, while India will be represented by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal.