Trump considers new tariffs on Indian rice and says no dumping

US President Donald Trump indicated on Monday (Dec 8, 2025) that he may impose new tariffs on agricultural imports, particularly Indian rice and fertilizers from Canada, as trade talks with both countries continue without major progress.

Trump made the comments during a meeting at the White House where he unveiled $12 billion in new aid for American farmers. He said imports were a challenge for domestic producers and reiterated his intention to tackle the problem.

The president said he would “take care” of the alleged dumping of Indian rice in the US. Farmers have pointed to falling rice prices, claiming imports from countries such as India, Vietnam and Thailand are undermining their crops. “They shouldn’t dump,” Trump said. “I mean, I’ve heard that, I’ve heard that from other people. You can’t do that.”

He also suggested possible tariffs on fertilizer from Canada to boost local production. “A lot of it comes from Canada, and so we’re going to end up putting very strict tariffs on that, if we have to, because that’s the way you want to strengthen here,” he said, adding, “And we can do it here. We can do all that here.”

The comments come amid ongoing economic pressures, including concerns about inflation and consumer prices. Farmers, a key supporter for Mr. Trump, have faced rising costs and market challenges related to the tariff policy.

Negotiations with both Canada and India, aimed at stabilizing trade relations, have encountered difficulties. Earlier this year, Mr Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods, citing trade barriers and energy purchases. A US delegation is expected to visit India this week for further talks, although no major breakthrough is expected.