Several Indian industries are reeling under economic pressure following the implementation of new U.S. tariff rates introduced by President Donald Trump. These tariffs, aimed at protecting American manufacturers, have hit key Indian export sectors hard — particularly those that are labor-intensive and heavily dependent on the U.S. market.
Among the worst affected is India’s textile and apparel industry, where tariffs have reportedly doubled, sharply reducing demand from American buyers. Traditional textile hubs like Tiruppur and Surat are facing order cancellations and job losses, especially among smaller exporters.
The gems and jewellery sector, a major contributor to India’s exports, is also under strain. With the U.S. being a primary market, cities like Mumbai and Surat are witnessing significant downturns, impacting thousands of workers.
Seafood exporters, particularly shrimp farmers, have been hit by combined tariffs exceeding 50%, forcing many to consider shutting operations. Similarly, industries like leather goods, handicrafts, furniture, and speciality chemicals are seeing declining exports due to high import duties imposed by the U.S.
The result is a growing sense of crisis, particularly among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that lack the financial resilience to absorb such shocks. Many fear job losses, reduced earnings, and long-term loss of market share to competitors like Vietnam and Bangladesh, who enjoy more favorable trade terms with the U.S.
With U.S. tariffs now threatening billions in export revenue, industry leaders are urging the Indian government to engage in diplomatic negotiations and support domestic exporters with relief measures and new market access strategies.
