Trump taps Gor as India ambassador, signals cut in tariffs

President Trump appointed longtime loyalist Sergio Gor as U.S. ambassador to India. At Gor’s swearing-in, Trump signaled a cut in tariffs on Indian imports, citing India’s reduced purchases of Russian crude oil. Despite Kpler data showing India’s Russian oil imports steady at around 1.6 million barrels per day, Trump attributed high tariffs to those oil buys. Gor’s mandate focuses on boosting U.S.-India trade and strategic partnership. He aims to promote investment in key U.S. industries and expand U.S. energy exports. The Senate confirmed his nomination on October 7, and Gor met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss trade, defence, technology and mineral resources. Analysts warn of risks. Oxford Economics’ Alexandra Hermann notes a political ambassador can speed negotiations but may lack diplomatic protection if ties sour. Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan cautions that steep tariffs and visa fees could strain ties, comparing the rift to India’s post-1971 shift toward Russia. India’s outreach to Russia persists. The Federation of Indian Export Organizations reports engineering exports to Russia are set to reach $1.75 billion by 2025. In fiscal 2025, India imported $63.8 billion from Russia and exported $4.9 billion. This shift in U.S. trade policy and potential tariff cuts could reshape U.S.-India trade and energy cooperation. Traders should watch updates on tariffs and energy export deals.