India, which now faces among the highest tariff rates imposed by the US, called the levy "unjustified and unreasonable".

Tariffs on Indian exports to the United States will surge to 50 percent by late August, as part of an effort by President Trump to pressure Russia into resolving its war in Ukraine.

A 50% tariff rate will be the highest levy among any U.S. trading partner, with some sectors of Indian economy more exposed than others.