Kashmiri Artisans Reel from Trump's Tariff Blow to India Trade

Kashmiri Artisans Feel the Bite of Trump's India Tariffs Srinagar, India-administered Kashmir - The imposition of new tariffs by the Donald Trump administration on Indian goods has sent shockwaves through the region's artisanal community. For 65-year-old Akhtar Mir and his team of papier-mache artisans in Hawal, the impact is particularly severe. "We are worried about our Christmas orders," said Mir, who has been perfecting the delicate art form for three generations. "We rely heavily on exports to the United States and Europe, but with these new tariffs, we're not sure if we'll be able to meet demand." Mir's workshop is a hub of activity, with dozens of artisans working tirelessly to create intricate vases, elephants, and ornamental boxes adorned with colorful patterns of flowers and birds. The papier-mache technique has been passed down through his family for generations, and the workshop not only supports Mir's own family but also provides income for many local artisans. The tariffs, which went into effect in August, have already had a significant impact on India's exports to the United States. According to data from the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry, exports to the US have declined by 15% since the tariffs were imposed. For Mir and his team, the decline in exports is a major concern. "We've always relied on our Christmas orders to get us through the lean months," said Mir. "But with these tariffs, we're not sure if we'll be able to make ends meet." The impact of the tariffs extends beyond just Mir's workshop. The entire artisanal community in Kashmir is feeling the pinch, as many rely heavily on exports to wealthy nations. "This is a disaster for us," said Firdous Nazir, a local artisan who specializes in traditional Kashmiri embroidery. "We've always been proud of our craftsmanship and the beauty of our designs, but now we're struggling to make ends meet." The Indian government has vowed to take action against the US tariffs, but for Mir and his team, the immediate concern is how they will weather the storm. "We're doing everything we can to adapt," said Mir. "We're exploring new markets and trying to find ways to reduce our costs, but it's a difficult time." As the holiday season approaches, Mir and his team are holding their breath, hoping that somehow, someway, they'll be able to meet demand despite the tariffs. Background: The papier-mache technique has been a staple of Kashmiri craftsmanship for centuries. The region is renowned for its intricate designs and beautiful patterns, which are highly prized by collectors around the world. Context: The imposition of new tariffs on Indian goods by the Trump administration has sent shockwaves through the country's export-oriented industries. The tariffs have already had a significant impact on India's exports to the US, with declines in key sectors such as textiles and handicrafts. Additional perspectives: "This is not just an economic issue; it's also a cultural one," said Dr. Sajjad Lone, a local historian who has studied the region's artisanal traditions. "The papier-mache technique is not just a craft; it's a way of life for many people in Kashmir." "We're not just artisans; we're entrepreneurs," said Nazir. "We've built our businesses on the back of our craftsmanship, and now we're struggling to survive." Current status: The Indian government has vowed to take action against the US tariffs, but for Mir and his team, the immediate concern is how they will weather the storm. Next developments: The Indian government is expected to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against the US tariffs. Local artisans are exploring new markets and trying to find ways to reduce their costs in response to the tariffs. *Reporting by Dw.*