Kamal Haasan: Addressing U.S. Tariff Threats to Indian Exports

Chennai, Aug 28 (PTI) - Makkal Needhi Maiam party founder and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan recently addressed the pressing issue of the U.S. government imposing a 50 percent tariff on Indian exports. Haasan expressed deep concern, stating that this tariff poses a direct threat to the sovereignty of Indian livelihoods. He has urged both the Centre and state governments to provide immediate relief to exporters.

To counter the tariff's impact, Haasan proposed several measures, including providing a two-year moratorium on loan repayments for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and establishing a special emergency credit line. He recommended that the government expand guarantee covers and restore low-interest export credit, along with clearing all pending GST, RODTEP, and RoSCTL refunds promptly. Additionally, he suggested that rates for the hardest-hit export sectors should be enhanced.

Haasan also advocated for temporary power-tariff concessions, freight support to enable entry into new markets, and more liberalized import norms for synthetic yarns. He emphasized the need for a single-window fast track system to expedite export compliance and refunds.

Beyond responding to the immediate crisis, Haasan called for a broader strategic mission to secure India’s place in future global supply chains, encompassing areas like rare earths, semiconductors, batteries, and advanced textiles. He stressed that such efforts would protect India from future overseas tariff challenges and threats.

“The 50 percent U.S. tariffs on our exporters are not merely about trade or geopolitics like the Ukraine situation; they are a political tool aimed at shaking our determination,” Haasan stated. He urged the nation to act collectively when faced with challenges to its economic sovereignty.

Haasan highlighted India’s commitment to energy security and emphasized that it should be held above geopolitical tactics. He drew comparisons with China’s experience, suggesting that tariffs on India felt much harsher. He quoted Gandhi, reiterating that Atmanirbharta, or self-reliance, is not merely a slogan but a necessary strategic insurance.

Expressing solidarity, Haasan pointed out the sectors most vulnerable to this shift, including exporters in Tiruppur, Surat, and Noida, shrimp farmers in Andhra Pradesh, the gems and jewelry industry in Gujarat and Maharashtra, as well as the steel industry. He insisted that these industries should not have to bear the brunt of geopolitical posturings.

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