China has sharply criticised the United States for slapping higher tariffs on Indian imports in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, calling it an example of "tariff abuse" and urging the US to exercise restraint.

Reacting to the move, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on Thursday that Beijing’s stance against the arbitrary use of tariffs remains “clear and consistent.” The remarks followed US President Donald Trump’s signing of an executive order that adds an extra 25% tariff on Indian products — effectively doubling duties to 50%.

China’s public rebuke also exposed growing unease over what it sees as Washington’s increasingly aggressive and selective use of economic penalties. Notably, China itself imports Russian oil but has not been hit with similar trade actions.

The two-stage tariff hike came into effect starting August 7, with the second phase expected 21 days later unless a breakthrough is achieved through dialogue. This escalation has triggered a diplomatic row between Washington and New Delhi, with India calling the move “regrettable” and vowing to defend its economic autonomy.

India’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal condemned the decision as “unfair and irrational,” saying that New Delhi would pursue all avenues to safeguard national interest. He also highlighted perceived hypocrisy in the US approach, pointing to its ongoing purchases of Russian raw materials such as uranium, palladium, and fertilisers.

This trade flashpoint marks a major downturn in what were once steadily improving US-India economic relations. Sectors like pharmaceuticals, food processing, and garments — key to India’s export economy — are now at heightened risk, say trade analysts.

The fallout also underscores deeper dissatisfaction in Washington over the collapse of trade negotiations with India, which reportedly faltered due to disagreements over agriculture access and data governance.

Addressing the issue publicly for the first time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a firm message during a speech at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference. Though he refrained from naming the US directly, Modi signalled that India would not yield to international coercion.

“Our farmers, fishermen, and dairy workers are the backbone of our country,” Modi said. “We will never compromise their interests. I am prepared to pay any price personally, and the nation stands ready too.”

President Trump, defending the move, described it as a reaction to India’s tightening partnership with Moscow — especially in energy and defence sectors. Just days before signing the order, he had cautioned that India could face consequences for maintaining ties with Russia.

On Wednesday, he followed through — and the White House indicated that secondary sanctions could follow. Meanwhile, Trump is expected to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the coming days in a new push to bring an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine.