Most of the new duties kicked in Thursday, hitting countries with elevated rates that mark a departure from long-standing trade norms.

Import taxes on Indian goods were already set to go to 25 percent after midnight Thursday. The rate would double in three weeks under a White House order.

India's gem and jewellery industry is deeply worried about the proposed 50% US tariff, potentially crippling exports and artisan livelihoods. The US is India's largest market, taking in $10 billion worth of exports.