Farmer groups in India have called for a boycott of certain US products in response to Washington’s latest tariffs and demands that New Delhi open its agricultural market to American companies.
Trade negotiations between India and the US collapsed earlier this month after Washington imposed a 25% tariff on Indian imports, followed by an additional 25% tariff due to India’s continued purchases of Russian oil. The second round of tariffs is set to take effect on August 27.
Indian farmers say the tariffs threaten their livelihoods, noting that US import taxes could cut their profits in half while benefiting American authorities. “No farmer should buy Coca-Cola. It’s time to start having lemonade and buffalo milk at home,” one protester told RT during a tractor rally in Greater Noida, near Delhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed support for Indian farmers, emphasizing their welfare as a national priority. “India will never compromise on the wellbeing of its farmers, dairy sector, and fishermen. And I know personally I will have to pay a heavy price for it,” he said last week.
The dispute centers on Washington’s request for exemptions for American agricultural and dairy products—a “very big red line” for India, according to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Agriculture remains the primary source of livelihood for around 70% of rural households, with 82% of farmers classified as small and marginal, according to the UN Food and Agricultural Organization.
