Trump Imposes New Iran Trade Tariffs But India Remains Shielded Due To Limited Humanitarian Commerce

US President Donald Trump has announced fresh tariffs on Iran linked trade but Indian officials say the move will not hurt India because its business with Tehran stays within humanitarian and legal limits.

Last Updated : Tuesday, 13 January 2026
Follow us :

US President Donald Trump has declared a new twenty five percent tariff on countries that continue trade with Iran.This step is part of Washington’s pressure campaign against Tehran.Many global exporters and banks are now worried about the impact.The move is meant to reduce Iran’s access to foreign money.But Indian officials say their trade model is different.India trades only in allowed sectors.So the risk remains very limited.

Why Is India Largely Safe From These Tariffs?

Indian companies follow US Office of Foreign Assets Control rules very strictly.Banks also clear payments only for permitted goods.India sells food medicines and basic items to Iran.These fall under humanitarian exemptions.Therefore no Indian company violates sanctions.This keeps Indian trade outside Trump’s new tariff net.Government sources say this legal compliance protects Indian exporters.

How Big Is India Iran Trade Today?

In the financial year two thousand twenty four twenty five India and Iran traded goods worth one point six eight billion dollars.Most of this was Indian exports.Agricultural products and medicines formed the bulk.Rice tea sugar and drugs were major items.Imports from Iran were much smaller.Dry fruits and chemicals made up most purchases.This limited trade reduces exposure to penalties.

Do New Tariffs Add Extra Burden On India?

India is already facing fifty percent tariffs in some US trade sectors.This means the new twenty five percent Iran tariff adds no fresh burden.Officials say Indian exporters are not shipping banned goods.Because of this no penalty can be applied.Financial institutions are also safe from action.This keeps India’s trade flow stable despite Trump’s decision.

Why Does Chabahar Port Matter In This Issue?

Chabahar Port in Iran is a joint India Iran project.It helps India reach Afghanistan and Central Asia.This port has received special waivers from US sanctions.It is linked to humanitarian and regional stability goals.Because of this it remains protected.India’s strategic connectivity plans continue.Therefore the port is not threatened by new tariffs.

Which Countries Will Feel The Real Impact?

The United Arab Emirates China Turkey and the European Union trade much more with Iran.They export and import large volumes.These countries now face higher risks.UAE alone trades over twenty billion dollars with Iran.China also has deep commercial ties.These partners will feel Trump’s tariff pressure far more than India.This makes India a small player in this dispute.

What Does This Mean For India Going Forward?

Indian officials believe their careful trade policy has worked.By staying within humanitarian rules India avoids trouble.This also keeps relations with the US stable.Trump’s move may shake other economies.But India remains protected.This allows New Delhi to continue its Iran ties safely.It also shows how compliance can reduce global trade risks.

Tags :