Ahmedabad: Randeep Singh Surjewala, in charge of Congress in Gujarat, on Tuesday raised concerns over the possible impact of higher US tariffs on Gujarat’s export-oriented industries, saying Morbi’s ceramics sector and Surat’s diamond industry could face serious challenges if the proposed duties were imposed.
He also alleged that the benefits of the GST changes announced by the Centre had not reached ordinary consumers.
He alleged there had been no clear response from the PM or ministers for the past 48 hours, with govt only saying that it was “watching” the situation.
Referring to the proposed 100% US tariff on Indian goods, he asked what the impact would be on industries in Morbi, which, he said, were already facing a 26% tax burden.
Speaking to reporters at the airport, Surjewala said the tariff issue had emerged as a “far-reaching” concern for Gujarat and India. “Surat’s diamond industry and Morbi’s industrial units could face a situation where they are forced to shut down,” he said. Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation election is also expected to figure in the discussions.
Surjewala, who arrived at Ahmedabad airport on Tuesday for a visit to Gujarat, said he would hold meetings with senior state Congress leaders to discuss the party’s organisational position and chalk out its future strategy.