Jim Rogers on US Tariffs: “Trump Certainly Doesn't Know What's Happening in Asia and India”

As US President Donald Trump imposes a 25 percent import tariff from India with another 25 percent to start on August 27, American investor Jim Rogers lambasted the action, stating Trump has no proper understanding of international affairs—particularly those happening in Asia and India.

In a special interaction with IANS, Rogers, one of the global financial luminaries, pointed out that India is still the world's fastest-growing economy. He contended that rather than slapping crippling tariffs, Washington must consolidate its trade and investment relationship with New Delhi.

"Trump wakes up, watches TV and then decides what to do. He doesn't know much of the world, and he definitely doesn't know what's going on in Asia and India," Rogers said to IANS.

Rogers was hopeful regarding the possibility of increased trade between the two countries, citing that bilateral trade could hit $500 billion by 2030—a target both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump have envisioned—if America increases more sensible policies to help develop closer ties.

For the first time in my life, I recognize that people in New Delhi actually do get economics. They know prosperity is a good thing, and success is a good thing too. It is such a thrilling and great change for India," said Rogers, terming India "an extremely exciting country, extremely exciting economy.

He also forecast that India would become one of the world's most desirable places to invest, likely to compete with China and even surpass it in the near future.

Talking about the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Rogers underlined their advantages, particularly for India. "More free trade is good for the world, particularly India. It will be very exciting for the world, including foreign investors," he said.

India has already concluded 13 FTAs with different partners and is in negotiations for many others, including the FTA between India and EU, India-Australia CECA, India-Peru Trade Agreement for goods, services and investment, India-Sri Lanka Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA), and India-Oman FTA.