In a strong call to action, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) founder and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan has urged the central and state governments to offer immediate support to Indian exporters grappling with the recent 50% tariffs imposed by the US administration under President Donald Trump. The measures, which took effect on August 27, are seen as retaliation against India's continued purchases of Russian oil and weapons amid ongoing global tensions. These tariffs, doubled from an initial 25%, are projected to affect approximately $48.2 billion in Indian exports, potentially slashing shipments in key sectors by up to 70% and threatening millions of jobs.

Haasan, a renowned actor-turned-politician known for his advocacy on social and economic issues, described the tariffs as a direct assault on the livelihoods of Indian workers, rather than a mere trade dispute. "This is not about commerce or international conflicts; it's a political tool designed to test our determination," he stated in a detailed release late Wednesday. He emphasized that India's commitment to energy security for its citizens remains unwavering, drawing parallels to Mahatma Gandhi's principles of self-reliance, or Atmanirbharta, as a vital safeguard against such external pressures.

To provide urgent relief, Haasan proposed a two-year moratorium on loan repayments for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which form the backbone of India's export economy and employ over 110 million people nationwide. He also advocated for a dedicated emergency credit line with low-interest rates, expanded guarantee covers, and the swift clearance of pending refunds under schemes like Goods and Services Tax (GST), Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RODTEP), and Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL). These refunds, often delayed, are crucial for cash-strapped exporters in sectors like textiles and apparel.

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Additionally, the MNM leader suggested temporary concessions on power tariffs to reduce operational costs, freight subsidies to explore alternative markets, and relaxed import rules for synthetic yarns to boost domestic production. A single-window system for fast-tracking export compliances and refunds could streamline processes, he added. Beyond short-term fixes, Haasan called for a long-term strategy to integrate India into emerging global supply chains in areas such as rare earth minerals, semiconductors, batteries, power electronics, and advanced textiles. "This challenge should ignite a decade-long mission to make India resilient against future threats," he asserted, highlighting the need for diversification away from US dependency.

The tariffs have particularly alarmed industries in regions like Tiruppur in Tamil Nadu (known for knitwear exports), Surat in Gujarat (diamonds and textiles), Noida in Uttar Pradesh (electronics and garments), Andhra Pradesh's shrimp farming hubs, and steel mills across the country. Experts warn that American consumers may face higher prices on everyday items like clothing, jewelry, and seafood as a result. Haasan extended solidarity to workers in these areas, insisting they should not suffer due to geopolitical maneuvers. "India bows to none," he declared, reinforcing the nation's resolve.

The Indian government has responded by promoting self-reliance initiatives and exploring new trade avenues, including deeper ties with the European Union and Southeast Asia, to mitigate the blow. As debates intensify, Haasan's intervention underscores the growing chorus for unified action to protect India's economic interests on the global stage.

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