US Considers Tariffs on China for Russian Oil Buys After Hitting India

11 August, 2025

The US is contemplating imposing tariffs on China for purchasing Russian oil, a move that follows the recent imposition of a total 50% duty on India for similar reasons. Vice President J.D. Vance confirmed President Trump is weighing options, noting the complexity of the US-China relationship. India has condemned the tariffs against it as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable" and plans to take necessary actions to protect its interests, highlighting significant friction in global trade and energy politics.

Unpacked:

What legal authority is the U.S. using to impose these tariffs tied to Russian oil purchases?

According to a White House fact sheet, President Trump signed an executive order imposing an extra 25% tariff on India under a declared national emergency related to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, and set a process to consider similar tariffs on other countries importing Russian oil, coordinated by Commerce, State, and Treasury.

How significant are India’s imports of Russian oil, and why did they rise?

India sharply increased Russian oil purchases after Western sanctions following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine; Russia’s share of India’s oil imports rose from 1.7% in FY20 to 35.1% in FY25, making Russia India’s largest supplier, aided by discounted prices.

Has the U.S. decided on tariffs against China for buying Russian oil?

No. Vice President J.D. Vance said President Trump is considering options but has made no firm decision, citing the broader and more complex U.S.–China relationship beyond the Russia context.

Why did the U.S. raise total tariffs on India to 50%, and when does the latest increase take effect?

The U.S. added a new 25% tariff aimed at deterring support for Russia’s economy via oil imports, on top of existing duties, bringing India’s total to about 50%; the supplementary 25% takes effect August 27.

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