MP Asaduddin Owaisi criticises US tariff, calls Trump ‘buffoon-in-chief’

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi on Thursday (July 31, 2025) criticised the 25% tariffs on imports from India announced by US President Donald Trump, describing him as “buffoon-in-chief”.

Taking to X, Mr. Owaisi, who represents Hyderabad in the Lok Sabha, noted that the new tariff regime constituted a vague “penalty” for countries that trade with Russia.

“India is an independent sovereign country. Not a vassal state that gives salami in the Emperor’s court,” he wrote.

Mr. Owaisi maintained Mr. Trump’s move was a clear and deliberate attack on India’s sovereignty and economic standing, and warned that these tariffs would significantly impact India’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), manufacturers, IT firms, service providers, and farmers. He cautioned that the move would deter foreign direct investment, damage export potential, and lead to job losses.

Underscoring the disparity in tariff rates, Mr. Owaisi said that while India faces a 25% tariff, other countries such as Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia would be charged lower rates,15 %, 20 %, and 19 % respectively.

He also sought to know the reason behind Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s alleged silence on the matter, invoking the BJP’s long-standing rhetoric on strength and leadership. “Is this the ‘56-inch chest’ we were promised? Or will we only see it if Trump raises tariffs to 56%?” he asked.