The U.S. decision to impose a 50% tariff on Indian goods is being felt across many industries. In our world of nutraceutical ingredients, the ripple effects are immediate and personal.
India isn’t just another supplier on the map, it’s the backbone of the world’s botanical trade. Ashwagandha, berberine, garcinia, turmeric, black pepper, and so many Ayurvedic herbs flow from here. And while vitamins and amino acids received exemptions, botanicals did not. It hurts!
I’ve spent nearly twenty years building bridges between U.S. brands and Indian manufacturers. Over the past three+ years my firm UGo Beyond has been focused on this market. Late last year, we took that one step further by establishing an office in Mumbai. The goal wasn’t symbolic, it was practical: to give our partners comfort, trust, and confidence when working with India. In these uncertain times we are reliable assets on the ground for our clients.
From where I sit, here’s the reality:
- Runway matters Those with extended inventory will manage through Q1 2026. Those without are naked.
- Alternatives aren’t quick Building capacity outside India is a multi-year journey, not a Q1 solution. Probably at least 5 years.
- Trust is currency. The brands that communicate transparently with customers and strengthen supplier relationships will emerge stronger.
References
- Washington Post “India braces as 50 percent U.S. tariffs come into effect,” Aug 27, 2025
- Reuters “Indian textiles, jewellery risk 50% Trump tariffs, pharma and phones exempt,” Aug 8, 2025
- SupplySide SJ “Trump’s 50% India tariff threat puts ashwagandha, other botanicals in crosshairs,” Aug 27, 2025
- SupplySide SJ “Tariff hikes spark supply chain diversification, flexibility,” Aug 27, 2025
- USImports Blog “U.S. tariffs and their impact on dietary supplement imports,” 2025