'T in WTO does not stand for Trump': Congress's jibe at PM Modi over reciprocal tariffs

NEW DELHI: The Congress on Tuesday took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the proposed reciprocal tariffs and said that he should remind his "good friend that the T in WTO stands for Trade, not Trump."
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh criticised the proposed reciprocal tariffs, saying that such measures contradicted fundamental international trade principles.
Jairam Ramesh stated, "Reciprocal tariffs are a complete negation of all accepted principles of international trade. Mr. Modi should summon the courage to remind his good friend that the T in WTO stands for Trade not Trump."

This follows US President Donald Trump's announcement to match import tax rates with other nations, potentially leading to economic tensions with various countries.
Trump indicated forthcoming reciprocal tariffs targeting nations including India and China, reiterating his stance from Prime Minister Modi's previous Washington visit.
On social media platform X, Congress' media head Pawan Khera raised several queries regarding the US tariff situation.
He questioned the government's strategy to protect domestic agricultural workers, who constitute 45.76% of the workforce, from increased American imports.
"Will the government now consider changes in domestic policy, particularly the legalisation of MSP, to provide basic income support to Indian farmers? What assurances will the Indian government secure to prevent India from becoming a dumping ground for cheap US agricultural imports?" Khera said.

He also questioned the government's plans to protect MSME sectors from expensive exports and international competition.
The Congress representative concluded by questioning the GDP implications of these reciprocal tariffs.