‘Bit more complicated’: Trump 'thinking about' tariffs on China for oil trade with Russia after India hike, says Vance

After hitting India with steep tariff hikes over its Russian oil imports, US President Donald Trump is now considering similar measures against China , Vice President JD Vance said, emphasising that such a move would be far more complex and politically sensitive.

Tariffs on China ‘on the table’

Speaking on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, Vice President JD Vance said tariffs on China are “on the table” but stressed no decision has been made. “The President said he’s thinking about it, but he hasn’t made any firm decisions,” Vance said. “The China issue is a little bit more complicated because our relationship… affects a lot of other things that have nothing to do with the Russian situation.”

He was responding to a question on whether Washington would target Beijing, given China also buys Russian oil. Chinese imports of Russian crude surged past 10 billion US dollars in July, the highest monthly total since March, though year-to-date purchases remain 7.7 per cent lower than in 2024.

Reviewing options, no firm decision yet

Vance reiterated that Trump is “reviewing his options” and “will make that decision when he decides.” Senior adviser Peter Navarro, however, played down the chances of immediate action, warning that tariffs “may hurt the US.”

Echoes of action against India

The comments follow last week’s move against India, when Trump announced an additional 25 per cent duty on Indian imports over its Russian oil purchases, bringing the total tariff rate to 50 per cent, among the highest the US imposes on any country. The extra duty takes effect on 27 August.

‘Unfair, unjustified and unreasonable’: India hits back

India called the decision “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.” The Ministry of External Affairs said, “It is extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India,” adding that New Delhi will take “all actions necessary” to protect its national interests. It stressed that energy imports are market-driven and essential for the energy security of India’s 1.4 billion people.

China defends trade with Russia

Beijing has defended its trade with Moscow, telling Bloomberg News: “It is legitimate and lawful for China to conduct normal economic, trade and energy cooperation with all countries, including Russia.” The Chinese Foreign Ministry vowed to “adopt reasonable energy security measures in accordance with our national interests.”