St Andre MLA Viresh Borkar on Friday raised concerns in the Assembly about the growing anxiety among Goan industrialists following the United States’ recent decision to impose an additional 25% tariff on goods imported from India. This hike raises the total tariff to 50% on certain products.
Borkar warned that the move is likely to render Indian—particularly Goan—exports significantly more expensive in the US market, impacting their competitiveness and profitability. Export-oriented industries in Goa fear a potential loss of orders, a decline in revenue, and possible job losses as a result of the tariff increase.
Responding to the concern, Minister for Industries, Trade, and Commerce Mauvin Godinho stated that the Government of India is already addressing the matter. Citing media reports, he said “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to chair a high-level cabinet meeting to assess the impact of the US decision on Indian exports. Since the issue is already being taken up at the national level, it may not be appropriate to discuss it further in the state assembly.
When the MLAs insisted on discussion on the issue, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said it is not possible to discuss the issue at this stage.
Leader of Opposition said, “We are being affected as we have pharmaceutical industry in the state.”
Chief Minister said the issue can be discussed at later stage but not now.