India, July 30 -- In its first response after Donald Trump's surprise announcement of a 25 percent tariff on goods exported from India to the US along with a 'penalty', the Centre has said it is studying the implications of the move and will take all steps to "secure our national interest".

In a measured statement, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said it has taken note of the announcement and stressed that India remains committed to negotiating a fair bilateral trade agreement with the United States.

It also mentioned that negotiations on the trade deal have been going on for months.

Stressing that the Centre places the "utmost importance on protecting and promoting the welfare of" farmers, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs (Micro, Small ...