WASHINGTON: India could face a new tariff of up to 100 percent after the US Senate approved legislation targeting countries that continue to purchase Russian oil, gas and other exports.
The Senate passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by an 86-11 vote on Friday, sending the measure to the House of Representatives.
India is among five countries identified by the bill’s sponsors as potential targets, alongside China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan.
However, the legislation does not automatically impose a 100 percent tariff. Instead, it establishes that figure as the maximum rate, with the US Trade Representative responsible for determining the tariff ultimately applied.
The US president would also have authority to waive the measures on national interest grounds, subject to congressional review every 180 days.
India-US trade talks
The Senate vote comes as India and the United States continue negotiations over a trade agreement, potentially adding another issue to discussions between the two countries.
New Delhi has previously opposed additional tariffs linked to Russian oil purchases, arguing that its energy imports are driven by domestic energy security requirements.
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The bill’s sponsors have said the proposed measures are intended to discourage major economies, particularly India and China, from purchasing Russian energy.
The legislation must now clear the Republican-controlled House before reaching President Donald Trump, who has indicated support for the measure.
Despite the Senate vote, the legislation provides Washington considerable flexibility, meaning India would not necessarily face the maximum 100 percent tariff even if the bill becomes law.
