- By Shivangi Sharma
- Sun, 03 Aug 2025 10:22 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a firm rebuttal to growing misinformation on social media, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has clarified that it is not considering suspending or reviewing any bilateral agreements with the United States, nor is it reviewing the list of American products exempted from tariffs. The clarification comes amid circulating fake posts suggesting otherwise.
On Sunday, the official fact-checking handle of the MEA, MEA FactCheck, called out disinformation being spread by multiple X (formerly Twitter) accounts. One such account, @Middle_Eastern0, had falsely claimed: “Unprecedented statement from New Delhi: India is considering suspending or reviewing certain bilateral agreements with the United States if hostile economic policies continue., Indian Ministry of External Affairs.” Another post by ‘China in English’ declared that “The Indian government begins reviewing the list of US products exempted from tariffs… and declares: No privilege without mutual respect.”
Disinformation being spread on X.#MEAFactCheck pic.twitter.com/E85HYIoUo0
— MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) August 3, 2025
BREAKING:
— China in English (@ChinainEnglis) August 2, 2025
🇮🇳 Indian Media | The Indian government begins reviewing the list of U.S. products exempted from tariffs... and declares:
"No privileges without mutual respect." pic.twitter.com/8prrkJLdue
In response, MEA FactCheck posted a snapshot of the misleading content and clearly stated, “This is FAKE News!”
India’s Actual Stand On Tariffs
Despite the imposition of a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods by the United States, New Delhi has not opted for any direct retaliatory measures. Instead, reports citing Indian government sources indicate that India is not seeking revenge but instead weighing constructive options. These may include increasing imports of key US goods such as oil, gold, and communication equipment, steps aimed at balancing trade while maintaining diplomatic decorum.
Government officials have also dismissed speculation that India is reviewing US-linked tariff exemptions, reiterating that no such policy shift is underway. The MEA emphasised that all official updates and positions will be communicated through verified government channels, urging the public not to fall for misinformation.
According to sources quoted by Hindustan Times, India and the United States are actively working to finalise a mutually beneficial trade agreement. Virtual discussions are currently underway, with unresolved matters expected to be addressed during the upcoming sixth round of physical talks.
The American negotiating team is scheduled to visit New Delhi on August 24, where they will join Indian counterparts in an effort to iron out the remaining differences in the trade pact.