India's Engagement with the US Amid New Tariffs

India is set to continue its engagement with the United States while ensuring the protection of its national interests, amidst the imposition of new tariffs by Washington which affect all Quad members, including India, Japan, and Australia.

Impact on Quad Dynamics

• Stability: Despite the tariffs, the dynamics within the Quad remain stable as the group is pivotal for the security of the Indo-Pacific region. The tariffs themselves do not impact the Quad.
• US Engagement: The focus is on the level of engagement that the Trump administration will maintain in the geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific.

India-US Trade Relations

• Importance of the US: The United States is a significant trade partner for India, and engagement will continue while safeguarding national interests.
• Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA): Discussions for a Bilateral Trade Agreement between India and the US are ongoing, aiming for a mutually beneficial deal.
• Impact Assessment: The Indian government is analyzing the impact of the tariffs on competitiveness.

Tariffs on Quad Members

• Japan and Australia: Along with India, Japan and Australia have also been affected by the tariffs. However, it is unlikely to disrupt Quad's dynamics, vital for Indo-Pacific stability.
• Japan's Response: Japan's trade minister indicated that US tariffs might breach World Trade Organization rules and is contemplating various response options.
• Negotiation Leverage: Due to strong national security ties with the US, Japan's ability to counter the tariffs primarily involves negotiating a deal and seeking concessions from the United States.