Indian Rupee Opens at ₹85.73, weakens by 22 Paise amid Global Tariff Concerns

On April 3, 2025, as the US reciprocated with its own tariffs, the Indian Rupee opened at its worst position in almost a month. The rupee opened at ₹85.73 against the US dollar, falling 22 paise. Such declining value signals fears about the consequences of escalating trade tensions for the world’s supply lines and economic health.

Impact of Reciprocal Tariffs

The United States President Donald Trump brought in a 26% import tariff on Indian products, which is far higher than the import levies on other countries like the European Union (20%), Japan (24%) and South Korea (25%). Trump had already labeled India’s tariffs on U.S. goods “very, very tough,” raising fears of retaliation and uncertainty in the global trade dynamic. These tariffs have further pressured the rupee, which has already dropped by 28 paise in the past two sessions.

Rupee's Recent Performance

Despite weakness today, the rupee gained 2.39% in March for its best monthly showing since November 2018. However, reflecting mixed trends due to divergent global and domestic factors, it also posted an overall decrease of 2.42% during the last fiscal year.

Market Outlook

However, “India remains relatively resilient due to ample forex reserves held by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), providing a buffer against currency volatility”, said Amit Pabari, Managing Director at CR Forex Advisors. The analyst expects robust support for the rupee at ₹85.50– ₹85.60 zones, and that the rupee could rebound toward the levels of ₹86.00– ₹86.20 in the near term. Weaker US economic data and trade tariffs towards in the long run should keep dollar index stop below 100 level and make rupee stronger towards ₹ 84.80– ₹85.00 levels.

Crude Oil Impact

World crude oil prices also fell on fears of weaker demand because of economic disruptions related to the tariffs. As of 9:10 AM IST, Brent crude was down 2.13% at $73.35 per barrel, even as WTI crude was down 2.29% at $70.07 per barrel.

Conclusion

The rupee’s fluctuation mirrors wider economic concerns arising from international trade tensions. Though there is short term volatility, India’s good forex reserve situation and considered RBI interventions should help in stabilizing the currency in the medium term. The markets and investors alike will continue to keep a close watch on how this saga unfolds, as caution and volatility prevail throughout.

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