White House Justifies Tariff War, Calls Out India, Canada, and Japan
The White House is doubling down on President Donald Trump’s escalating trade tariffs, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt spotlighting India’s “150% tariff” on American alcohol as a prime example of what she called “unfair” global trade practices. The comments come amid growing fears of a brewing trade war that could shake global markets.
Leavitt, addressing reporters on Tuesday, didn’t hold back. She pointed to steep tariffs from several countries, with India and Canada taking center stage. “Do you think that’s helping Kentucky bourbon be exported into India? I don’t think so,” she remarked, highlighting the impact on iconic American industries.
India, Canada, Japan — All Under Fire
Leavitt came armed with statistics, calling out not just India but a lineup of countries she claimed were exploiting US businesses.
- India: 150% tariff on American alcohol and 100% on agricultural imports
- Canada: Nearly 300% tariff on American cheese and butter
- Japan: A staggering 700% tariff on American rice
She argued that these tariffs make it “next to impossible” for US goods to compete. “President Trump believes in reciprocity and wants fair, balanced trade — nothing more, nothing less,” she added.
For India, the focus was on bourbon — a symbolic American export. Kentucky’s bourbon industry, which generated over $9 billion in 2024, faces severe hurdles in expanding to India, a market known for its growing appetite for premium liquor.
Trump’s ‘Reciprocity’ Stance Gets Sharper
Trump isn’t backing down. He’s made it clear that countries hitting American products with high tariffs can expect retaliation.
“This country has been ripped off from every nation in the world,” Trump told Fox News. “We’ve been ripped off at levels never seen before, and what we’re going to do is get it back.”
The President has already imposed new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China, linking them to border control failures and the fentanyl crisis. On March 7, he briefly delayed tariffs on Mexico and Canada, citing “fruitful conversations” with Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum. Canada wasn’t so lucky. Trump slammed the country as a “high tariff nation” and hinted that stronger measures could follow.
Trade War or Negotiation Tactic?
The aggressive rhetoric is drawing mixed reactions. Supporters say Trump’s hardline approach forces trading partners to rethink their policies. Critics warn it could trigger retaliation, driving up prices for American consumers.
Economists point to a complex balancing act. While the tariffs may protect certain industries, they also raise costs for businesses relying on imported materials. For example, American distillers importing glass bottles from Canada now face higher expenses, pushing up bourbon prices at home.
What Comes Next?
The White House hinted at more tariffs — but also left room for negotiation. Trump, known for his unpredictable deal-making style, could still strike agreements.
The bigger question is whether countries like India, Canada, and Japan will blink first or dig in. With elections in the US looming, the trade strategy could become a defining campaign issue.
