Trump's 50 pct tariff on imports from India takes effect

WASHINGTON, Aug. 27 (Xinhua) -- A 50 percent tariff on imports from India, imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, took effect Wednesday.

India now joins Brazil in facing a 50 percent U.S. tariff, one of the highest rates set by Washington. By doubling the tax on imports of Indian goods, Trump is punishing India for buying Russian oil.

The tariff went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time.

Earlier this month, India denounced Washington's additional tariff on its exports as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable," saying that its oil purchases are intended to ensure predictable and affordable energy costs for domestic consumers.