The economies subject to these investigations include China, the EU Japan, India and others (https://ustr.gov/about/policy-offices/press-office/press-releases/2026/march/ustr-initiates-section-301-investigations-relating-structural-excess-capacity-and-production)The action initiated by the US is unilateral and discretionary. It is in conflict with WTO rules which provide mechanisms for resolving trade disputes on a reciprocal basis through negotiation. Moreover, India has invested heavily in oilfields in Russia and in ports and other infrastructure in Iran. Importing such heavily subsidised cotton by India will adversely impact domestic cotton prices in India. In my view, India, keeping in view its enormous market strength, should aseert its sovereignty and insist on 100% reciprocity in trade matters with the US and other developed countries.

Source: Economic Times March 29, 2026 08:59 UTC