Trump's Iran Tariff Threat: India's Rice, Tea Exporters Face Immediate Crisis

• US President Donald Trump's 25% tariff threat on countries doing business with Iran creates uncertainty for Indian exporters.
• While the macroeconomic impact on India is downplayed, basmati rice and tea exporters face significant, immediate risks.
• Iran is the second-largest destination for Indian basmati rice, with nearly $753 million exported in 2024-25.
• Exporters report cargo stuck, contracts in limbo, rising shipping costs, and payment delays due to Iran's currency depreciation.
• Indian government is working on guidelines to help companies navigate trade with Iran amidst evolving geopolitical and sanctions landscape.

Why It Matters: Trump's Iran tariff threat puts Indian rice and tea exporters in immediate crisis with rising costs and payment risks.