India faces the possibility of higher US tariffs after the US House of Representatives passed legislation giving President Donald Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas.
The House approved the measure by 262–159 votes on September 16. The legislation, known as the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, now goes to the White House for consideration. The bill had previously cleared the US Senate.
India, along with China and other major buyers of Russian energy, could be affected by the tariff provisions. However, the legislation does not automatically impose a 100% tariff on India; it gives the US president the authority to impose tariffs of up to that level.
The legislation is aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia by targeting its energy revenues and entities involved in sanctions evasion, including its so-called shadow fleet.
India has said it will take necessary steps to protect its trade and economic interests while continuing to focus on energy security through diversified sourcing and evolving market conditions.
The potential tariff action adds uncertainty to India-US trade relations and could have implications for Indian exports to the US if such duties are eventually imposed.
The next key step is consideration of the legislation by President Trump, after which the scope and implementation of any potential tariffs would become clearer.