US Congress passes tariffs targeting Russia buyers
Measure imposes duties on firms buying Russian goods and draws a pledge from India to defend its economic interests.
Mateo Fernandez ·
President Trump signed into law a bill on Sept. 17, 2026, that imposes tariffs on foreign buyers of specified Russian goods, officials said. Reaction pending.
Tariffs target India, China buyers The legislation names major importers, including India and China, among those subject to new duties, officials said. Lawmakers described the measure as a step to tighten economic pressure on Russia; the bill text showed tariff provisions aimed at buyers rather than producers.
India responded by saying it would safeguard its trade and investment interests, officials said. New Delhi did not outline immediate retaliatory measures but said it would review the bill’s trade implications for energy and critical imports, where Russia remains a significant supplier.
Analysts say the provision could complicate existing contracts and force buyers to seek exemptions or alternative suppliers; officials cautioned that implementation details and enforcement will determine the policy’s practical effect. The diplomatic angle is likely to shape consultations between trade ministries and importers in the coming weeks, officials said.
Watch for India’s formal policy response by September 30, 2026, officials said; that date will be a key marker for markets and companies with exposure to Russian trade channels.