India’s Commerce Secretary, Rajesh Agrawal, stated that India’s exports to Iran primarily consist of humanitarian goods. The Indian government is waiting for the detailed US executive order to evaluate the impact of the proposed 25% tariff announced by President Donald Trump. Despite Trump’s social media post warning of tariffs for countries dealing with Iran, Indian officials await further clarity on the matter.
Agrawal highlighted that the majority of India’s trade with Iran involves humanitarian items. The government is currently analyzing the announcement and anticipates the official executive order to comprehend its consequences. The Federation of Indian Export Organisations affirmed that Indian entities are adhering to US sanctions by limiting trade with Iran to permitted humanitarian products like food and pharmaceuticals.
Previously, sanctions imposed by the US Office of Foreign Assets Control had significantly reduced trade between India and Iran. In the fiscal year 2024–25, India’s total trade with Iran amounted to $1.68 billion, with exports valued at $1.24 billion, predominantly from the agriculture sector. Notably, India’s exports to Iran constituted only 0.28% of its total exports worth $437 billion during the same period.
Key Indian exports to Iran encompass cereals, animal fodder, tea, coffee, spices, fruits, vegetables, and pharmaceuticals. The Indian government affirmed that a final decision will be made once the US issues the detailed order regarding the proposed tariff.
