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New Delhi, Feb 2 The Central Government has implemented adjustments to customs duties in an effort to bolster the self-reliance of the Indian economy, stated Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during a post-budget discussion with NDTV.
When asked by NDTV Editor-in-Chief Sanjay Pugalia if the budget’s announcement regarding the reduction of customs duties on various automobiles—which could benefit firms like Tesla and Harley Davidson—was a response to tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, Sitharaman elaborated.
“Our perspective is oriented towards our own economy. Our aim is to reinforce the foundations of the Indian economy, establishing it as a manufacturing center,” she explained.
The Finance Minister highlighted that the Union Budget’s customs duty reductions are intended to make raw materials more affordable for MSMEs, facilitate access to crucial minerals, and enable Indian companies to import inputs and export high-value finished products.
In advance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s anticipated trip to the US, tariffs on Harley Davidson motorcycles were further decreased. The duty on completely built units (CBUs) for motorcycles with engines below 1600 cc has been reduced from 50% to 40%, while reductions are even steeper for motorcycles exceeding that engine capacity.
While the basic customs duty on imported cars and other vehicles has also seen a decrease, it remains uncertain if their effective duty rates will change.
Sitharaman noted that the government is striving to find a balance between fortifying the foundation of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ and placing substantial emphasis on critical sectors such as health, nutrition, and education through welfare initiatives.
She dismissed allegations from the Opposition that the BJP-led Central Government is merely attempting to attract voters in Bihar and Delhi with the announcements made in the Union Budget.
The Finance Minister presented the Union Budget for 2025-26 on Saturday, marking her eighth consecutive budget presentation.
Before its move to Norwich, the company launched 12 years ago in Lincolnshire from a spare bedroom. (Image: Newsquest) A new motorcycle store, Sportsbikeshop, has replaced the former Harley Davidson shop on Ber Street.
With this new branch, the company marks the opening of its 10th location, which will incorporate the ‘Try on or Buy’ reservation feature.
The shop focuses on apparel and accessories and officially opened on February 1.
2. Esquires Coffee
A popular coffee chain, boasting over 20 branches nationwide, is set to open in Hethersett. (Image: Creative Commons)Esquires Coffee is anticipated to open its doors on February 26.
The cafe will accommodate roughly 80 guests, providing beverages and meals akin to those offered by Costa and Starbucks.
3. Cotton Traders
Celebrity ambassador Alex Jones represents the clothing line Cotton Traders. (Image: Cotton Traders) Cotton Traders launched at Notcutts Garden Centre on February 1.
Established in 1987, the brand creates garments for both men and women.
The retail space occupies 1,400 sqft, resulting in the creation of five new job opportunities for the local community.
4. Hello Sailor Fish Supper Club
The bar will serve fresh seafood sourced from the coastlines of Norfolk and Suffolk. (Image: Fixr Digital) Yalm, the multi-vendor food hall located in the Royal Arcade, is excited to announce its collaboration with Hello Sailor Fish Supper Club.
This pop-up seafood bar will be managed by chef Elliot Ketley for a duration of three months starting February 12.
5. Men’s Shed
The Men’s Shed will be hosted at the Walled Gardens in Little Plumstead. (Image: Newsquest) A new Men’s Shed in Norwich will accommodate up to 20 participants and will provide various engaging sessions.
Activities will include bushcraft, bicycle repair, and metalworking, aiming to entice men to utilize the gardens.
Andy Carty, the Chairman of the Walled Gardens, will be present at the opening event on February 15.
US President Donald Trump embraces Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the “Namaste Trump” event at Sardar Patel Gujarat Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, on February 24, 2020. — Reuters
NEW DELHI: In its Union Budget for 2025-26, India has substantially reduced customs duties on premium motorcycles, cars, and smartphone components. This development appears advantageous for American companies such as Harley-Davidson, Tesla, and Apple, following remarks by US President Donald Trump describing New Delhi as a “tremendous tariff maker.”
Nonetheless, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the adjustment of customs duties is aimed at promoting self-reliance within the Indian economy and is not a reaction to Trump’s tariff announcements.
“We are focusing on our own economy and aiming to fortify the foundations of the Indian economy to transform it into a manufacturing hub,” she asserted.
During her budget presentation on Saturday, Ms. Sitharaman disclosed a reduction in import duties for high-end motorcycles, with engine capacities up to 1,600cc imported as completely built-up (CBU) units, from 50 per cent to 40 per cent.
According to the Union Budget for 2025-26, the import duty on semi-knocked down (SKD) kits has decreased to 20 per cent from 25 per cent. Furthermore, completely knocked down (CKD) units will now incur a tax of 10 per cent, down from 15 per cent.
This shift is set to enhance the import of quintessentially American Harley-Davidson motorcycles into India, as the previous high tariffs have been a longstanding issue between India and the US.
Harley-Davidson began its journey in India in 2010, following the “mangoes for motorcycles” agreement established between India and the US in 2007. However, the American motorcycle manufacturer withdrew from the Indian market about ten years later, in September 2020, as part of broader downsizing efforts.
Nonetheless, a month later, Harley-Davidson re-entered the Indian market after Hero MotoCorp Ltd formed a non-equity partnership with the American brand to manufacture and distribute its motorcycles in India. Currently, Hero MotoCorp produces and sells the Harley-Davidson 440X, the smallest model in the brand’s lineup.
During his first term in office, Trump raised concerns regarding the 50 per cent import duty on Harley Davidson motorcycles, deeming it “unacceptable.”
Separately, Ms. Sitharaman announced that the tariff on luxury cars, including station wagons and racecars valued over $40,000, has been reduced from 125 per cent to 70 per cent. Additionally, the basic customs duties on lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles in India have been eliminated.
Most of the aforementioned EV manufacturers are already operational in India, developing vehicles tailored for the Indian market. However, this move could serve as a lure for American companies like Tesla, which is keenly observing the expanding Indian EV landscape.
In April 2024, Tesla CEO Elon Musk planned a visit to India to meet PM Modi, fueling speculation about potential investments in the country. However, he canceled the trip due to “very heavy Tesla obligations.”
In the 2025-26 budget, Ms. Sitharaman confirmed that customs duties on 28 items related to mobile phone battery production from countries such as the US and China have been waived. This initiative aims to lower the cost of mobile phones and accessories in India while bolstering local production, particularly as India progresses towards becoming the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer.
Apple stands to gain significantly from these reductions in import taxes. A report from Reuters indicates that Apple secured a 23 per cent share of total revenue in 2024.
As US President Trump advocates for prioritizing domestic industry under his “America First” trade policy, India’s recent adjustments to import taxes are perceived as a strong signal to the American administration, seeking assurance against increased taxes or additional trade barriers directed at Indian goods.
Previously, Trump asserted that India imposes the highest tariffs on foreign items compared to major economies and threatened to enforce reciprocal tariffs on Indian products. He also warned of 100% tariffs on BRICS nations, including India, if they moved away from the US dollar.
Speculation arises that with the tax reductions on imports, India aims to capitalize on the US-China trade conflict and augment its own presence in global supply chains. Trump’s tariffs are becoming disruptive to global trade, creating uncertainty in the market. With the import tax reductions, India should be better positioned to navigate a potentially unpredictable year, as reported by Reuters.
This change is set to make Harley-Davidson motorcycles more attainable for riders throughout the country.
The longstanding tariff on Harley-Davidson has been a contentious issue between India and the United States.
So, what prompted India to lower the import duties on these bikes now? What effects will this have on sales and the market?
Let’s dive in:
Reasons for the Reduced Prices of Harley-Davidson in India
The import duty on motorcycles with engine sizes up to 1,600 cc, brought in as completely built-up (CBU) units, has decreased from 50% to 40%.
For larger motorcycles exceeding 1,600 cc, the reductions are even more significant.
This change could enhance accessibility to Harley-Davidson motorcycles for Indian bike enthusiasts. Reuters/File Photo
The tariff on semi-knocked down (SKD) kits has been reduced from 25% to 20%, while completely knocked down (CKD) units will now incur a tax of 10% instead of 15%.
This tariff issue has been a long-standing point of contention between India and the United States, with former US President Donald Trump repeatedly advocating for its reduction. The announcements made in the Budget 2025 have helped alleviate these tensions.
With these duty reductions, Harley-Davidson motorcycles are expected to become more affordable, potentially expanding their customer base and boosting sales and market share for the brand.
While the basic customs duty on cars and other vehicles has also been lowered, its effect on effective duty rates remains unclear.
In the Union Budget for 2025-26, the government has introduced an Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC) on the imports of such two-wheelers, whether as CBU, SKD, or CKD units.
The tax rationalization aims to lower prices compared to prior rates.
This initiative is perceived as an attempt by the Indian government to create a fair competitive environment for international manufacturers by decreasing tariff barriers in sectors where India has a robust supply chain, as stated by Saurabh Agarwal, Partner & Automotive Tax Leader at EY, in an interview with The Hindu BusinessLine.
The Trump Influence: ‘America First’ Trade Policy
This decision is interpreted as a significant signal to the new US administration under Trump. The previous US President’s administration consistently advocated for the reduction of trade barriers, especially concerning products made in the United States.
Prior to this, Trump highlighted that India imposed the highest tariffs on foreign products among major economies and even threatened to apply reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods.
The Trump administration’s ongoing push for reduced trade barriers is notable. Reuters/File Photo
“One of the most critical elements of my plan to revitalize the American economy is reciprocity. It’s vital because we usually don’t impose tariffs. I initiated that process with vehicles like vans and small trucks, etc. While we don’t impose high tariffs, China has a 200 percent tariff, and Brazil imposes significant charges. India ranks as one of the highest,” Trump stated in a notable economic policy address.
In an interview with CBS News, Trump expressed, “We are not the naïve country that suffers as poorly. India is a close friend of mine, Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi, has implemented a 100 percent tax on motorcycles. We don’t charge them a penny.”
“Thus, when Harley exports there, they face a 100 percent duty. Conversely, when they import into India, there are no taxes. I informed him it is unacceptable,” he added.
VIDEO | Reiterating his stance on tariffs, US President Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) spoke in Miami, stating, “Outside forces that genuinely wish us harm, but wish to improve their own country, look at others such as China which imposes tremendous tariffs. pic.twitter.com/NDW8v1WYUG
“Through one phone call, he (Modi) reduced it by 50 percent. Yet, I still find it unacceptable because 50 percent against nothing still poses an issue. They are currently addressing this,” he further mentioned.
In December of the previous year, Trump clarified that his administration would adopt a tit-for-tat stance, saying, “If they impose taxes on us, we will impose the same on them.”
“Reciprocity is crucial, as it raises the question: If India levies a 100 percent tax, why shouldn’t we charge them proportionately? They send us bicycles, and we send them bicycles. They impose significant duties, while we do not,” he said.
Trump’s view aligns with his “America First” trade policy, focusing on safeguarding American workers and families. In his inauguration speech, he proclaimed that his policies would reinstate the US as a manufacturing power.
It’s important to note that Trump has also hinted at the possibility of imposing 100% tariffs on BRICS countries, including India, should they attempt to steer away from utilizing the US dollar. The BRICS group comprises ten nations: Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar clarified in December that India has never favored de-dollarisation and that no proposals exist for a BRICS currency.
India’s strategic focus is on fostering domestic manufacturing.
As reported by News18, the government is contemplating customs duty cuts on approximately seven to eight premium products, including specialized steel, high-end motorcycles, and electronic devices.
With the new reductions, affordability of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in India is expected to improve. Reuters/File Photo
The duty on luxury vehicles priced over $40,000 has been decreased from 125% to 70%, including models like station wagons and racecars, as reported by NDTV Profit.
At present, the Harley-Davidson 440X—the smallest model in their line— is being co-manufactured and sold in India by Hero MotoCorp. The company has recorded sales of 12,188 units of both the Harley-Davidson X440 and the X440-based Hero Mavrick 440 from April to December 2024.
In a promising move for the new US administration under President Donald Trump, India has reduced the import duty on high-capacity motorcycles in the Union Budget 2025-26, providing a significant advantage for the American brand Harley-Davidson.
Motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 1,600 cc, imported as completely built-up (CBU) units, will now incur a 40% import duty, down from the previous 50%, as outlined in the Budget documentation.
The import duty on semi-knocked down (SKD) kits has been lowered to 20%, from 25% previously.
For completely knocked down (CKD) units, the tax rate will be set at 10%, reduced from 15% earlier.
The government’s objective is to encourage domestic manufacturing.
Reports also indicate that India is considering a reduction in customs duty on approximately seven to eight high-end products, including specialized steel, luxury motorcycles, and electronic goods.
Currently, the Harley-Davidson 440X – the smallest model in the brand’s lineup – is co-manufactured and sold in India by Hero MotoCorp.
Additionally, the Budget specified that high-end cars priced over $40,000 will now face a tariff of 70%, down from 125%, reflecting the increasing demand for luxury vehicles in the country.
Hero MotoCorp, which produces the Harley-Davidson X440 and the X440-based Hero Mavrick 440, reported sales of 12,188 units for these two models during the April-December 2024 timeframe.
This marks a year-on-year growth of 77%, giving Hero MotoCorp a 13% share of this market segment.
The Made-in-India Harley-Davidson is manufactured at Hero’s Garden Factory in Neemrana, Rajasthan.
It is available in three variants – Denim (₹2.40 lakh), Vivid (₹2.60 lakh), and S (₹2.80 lakh) – with 8,974 units sold between April and December 2024, representing a 31% increase according to industry data.
(This content was sourced from a syndicated feed and only edited for style by the Gujarat Samachar Digital team)
American motorcycle brands, including Harley-Davidson, could see a price drop in India following the Budget 2025 announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025. The budget has reduced import duties on high-capacity motorcycles.
The import duty for motorcycles with engine capacities up to 1,600 cc, which are imported as completely built-up (CBU) units, has been decreased from 50 percent to 40 percent.
Harley Davidson is renowned for its high-capacity motorcycles.
Moreover, the import duty on semi-knocked down (SKD) kits has been lowered from 25 percent to 20 percent, while completely knocked down (CKD) units now incur a tax of 10 percent, reduced from the previous 15 percent.
This tariff reduction is a response to threats from US President Donald Trump regarding reciprocal taxes on nations imposing high tariffs on American goods.
In December, Trump remarked that India’s taxes are excessive, asserting, “If they tax us, we tax them the same amount.”
According to the Ministry of Commerce, India emerged as the largest trading partner of the US last financial year.
Additionally, the tariff on Harley-Davidson bikes has been a contentious issue between India and the US for years, with Trump advocating for its reduction.
The import duty on motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 1,600 cc, imported as completely built-up (CBU) units, has been reduced to 40% from the previous rate of 50%.
Currently, the Harley-Davidson 440X— the smallest bike in the company’s lineup— is co-manufactured and marketed in India by Hero MotoCorp (File)
In the Union Budget 2025 announced on Saturday, India revealed a reduction in import duty for high-capacity motorcycles, benefiting the American brand, Harley-Davidson.
The import duty on motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 1,600 cc, imported as completely built-up (CBU) units, has been decreased to 40% from 50%. For motorcycles exceeding 1,600 cc, the duty reductions are even more significant.
Moreover, the import duty on semi-knocked down (SKD) kits has been reduced to 20%, down from 25%. Completely knocked down (CKD) units will now incur a tax of 10%, reduced from the previous 15%.
This move is regarded as a positive signal to the new US administration led by President Donald Trump. The tariffs on Harley-Davidson motorcycles have been a contentious issue in US-India relations. The Trump administration has persistently advocated for lower trade barriers, particularly on US-manufactured goods.
Previously, President Trump claimed that India imposes the highest tariffs on foreign products among major countries. He also warned of reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods.
“Perhaps the most important element of my plan to make America extraordinarily wealthy again is reciprocity. It’s a word that’s very important in my plan because we generally don’t charge tariffs. I started that process, it was so great, with the vans and the small trucks, etc. We really don’t charge. China will charge us a 200 percent tariff. Brazil is a big charger. The biggest charger of all is India,” Trump stated in a significant economic policy address, as reported by PTI.
“We’re not the foolish country that does so badly. You look at India, a very good friend of mine, Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi, you take a look at what they’ve done, 100 percent tax on a motorcycle. We charge them nothing,” Trump remarked in an interview with CBS News.
“So, when Harley sends over there, they have 100 percent tax. When they (India) send in they make a tremendous number of motorcycles when they send them in, no tax. I called him. I said it’s unacceptable,” he added.
In the meantime, the Indian government has stated that the objective is to foster domestic manufacturing.
India is reportedly also considering cuts to customs duties on approximately seven to eight high-end products, which include specialized steel, high-end motorcycles, and electronic devices.
Currently, the Harley-Davidson 440X — the smallest motorcycle in the company’s lineup — is co-manufactured and sold in India by Hero MotoCorp. The firm, which produces the Harley-Davidson X440 and the X440-based Hero Mavrick 440, sold a total of 12,188 units of these two models during the April-December 2024 period, according to news agency IANS.
(With inputs from agencies)
Newsbusiness Harley Davidson Bikes May Get Cheaper In India, Here’s Why
Niranjan Gupta, the Chief Executive Officer of Hero MotoCorp Ltd, is resigning from his position “to explore new opportunities,” as announced by the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India in an exchange filing on Friday, January 31, 2025.
The launch of Hero MotoCorp’s motorcycles, the Xtreme 250R and the Xpulse 210, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 in New Delhi on January 17, 2025. (Atul Yadav/PTI)
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Gupta’s final day in the office will be April 30, 2025, and effective May 1, 2025, Vikram Kasbekar, currently the Executive Director (Operations), will assume the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer, the company stated.
“Participating in the journey of Hero MotoCorp has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. I am thankful to Dr. Munjal & the Board of Directors for the honor of leading this remarkable company,” stated Niranjan Gupta. “Over my eight years at Hero, I have had the chance to collaborate with a talented team and contribute to the company’s ongoing success.”
“As I transition to new opportunities, I convey my best wishes to the entire Hero MotoCorp team for a promising and progressive future,” he added.
This announcement follows the company’s declaration in late December 2024 regarding its collaboration with Harley-Davidson to develop another new motorcycle and to launch additional variants of the Harley-Davidson X440, which was jointly created.
The X440 represents the initial outcome of the Hero-Harley partnership, which dates back to 2020 when Harley Davidson ceased local assembly in India due to low demand, effectively leaving Hero in charge of existing dealerships.
The newly appointed acting CEO, Vikram Kasbekar, expressed, “I am honored to undertake the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer at Hero MotoCorp. With over two decades of service within this remarkable organization, I am eager to collaborate closely with our talented team to foster ongoing growth and innovation. I am grateful for the confidence bestowed upon me by Dr. Munjal & the Board of Directors, and I am committed to guiding the company during this transitional phase. Together, we will build upon our strong legacy and continue to provide excellence to all our customers, partners, and stakeholders.”
In the meantime, Ram Kuppuswamy has been elevated to COO ‐ Manufacturing, and Ashutosh Varma will lead the India Business Unit as Chief Business Officer.
“Since joining Hero in 2017, Niranjan has bolstered our financial stability, established global partnerships, and laid the groundwork for the House of Strategy that will shape our future growth,” remarked Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman of Hero MotoCorp. “His leadership has been crucial in guiding the company into new territories. I wish him all the best and great success in his future endeavors.”
A MASSIVE Harley-Davidson dealership has reopened after abruptly closing its doors for several weeks, with customers’ bikes still inside.
The expansive 30,000-square-foot establishment features over 100 Harley-Davidson motorcycles and more than $3.5 million in inventory.
New owners have taken charge of a previously closed Harley-Davidson dealershipGetty An announcement on the dealership’s Facebook page detailed operational continuity after the abrupt closureFacebook/San Jose Harley-Davidson The dealership features over 100 motorcycles valued in the millionsGetty
The dealership, one of the largest Harley-Davidson locations in Northern California, ceased operations on December 21, 2024.
“To the Harley-Davidson community that San Jose H-D has served, we thank you for your years of support and shared enthusiasm,” the dealer stated on their Facebook page on the closure day.
It was announced that new ownership would take effect on January 14.
After a few delays, the store officially reopened on January 21, with the prior owner’s endorsement.
The new owners, Mike Genthner and Jess Bettencourt, have been part of the Harley-Davidson family since 1997.
They already operate Oakland Harley-Davidson in Oakland, California, also located in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Upon taking over, Genthner and Bettencourt pledged to reach out to customers whose bikes were in the store during the December closure.
They also committed to fulfilling pending special orders, work order deposits, and honoring gift cards.
Both Genthner and Bettencourt, native Californians, have been involved in their family businesses from a young age.
The two acquaintances met in high school, united by their passion for motorcycles and the Harley-Davidson brand.
Genthner and Bettencourt manage daily operations at Oakland Harley-Davidson and actively engage with both staff and customers.
San Jose Harley-Davidson patrons have expressed positive sentiments about the ownership transition on the store’s Facebook page.
“The new owner I spoke with is very customer-oriented,” noted one fan.
“He took my bike from SJ service to Oakland, and they’re almost done after a week.”
“Thank you for continuing to honor the gift cards and maintaining the business,” another commented.
Laidlaw’s Harley-Davidson, situated near Los Angeles, has recently introduced a Pan America 1250 Special concept bike featuring flashing red and blue lights, multiple saddlebags, and sirens.
This model also features enhanced ground clearance and improved suspension for various terrains.
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, ceased operations in October after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Authorities Look into Deadly Collision on Godwin Blvd
Published 2:10 pm Friday, January 31, 2025
All lanes of Route 10 at 4120 Godwin Boulevard have reopened. Official identification has been confirmed, and next of kin has been notified. The deceased motorcyclist has been identified as 30-year-old Wyatt Austin Brill, residing in the 200 block of Bedford Place, Suffolk, Virginia.
On Thursday, January 30, 2025, at around 6:30 PM, a Virginia State trooper tried to pull over a 2016 Harley Davidson motorcycle for speeding—traveling at 100 mph in a 55 mph zone—on Route 10 near Five Mile Road, in Suffolk.
The rider, who remains unidentified, did not stop, initiating a police pursuit. The motorcyclist fled eastbound on Route 10 at a high speed, overtaking vehicles over a double solid line. At 6:33 PM, the trooper lost sight of the motorcycle near Kings Fork Road and ceased the pursuit.
At approximately 6:46 PM, the driver of a 2018 Ford Explorer contacted authorities, stating she was driving westbound on Route 10 when she noticed a motorcycle in her lane attempting to evade police. The motorcycle sideswiped her vehicle on Godwin Boulevard, east of Harrell Drive, and continued down Route 10. The investigating trooper, along with the Suffolk Police Department, searched the area for the fleeing motorist and treated the incident as a hit and run. The driver of the Ford Explorer sustained no injuries.
On January 31, 2025, at approximately 12:42 PM, Suffolk PD informed state police that a body matching the description of the motorcyclist had been discovered at 4120 Godwin Boulevard. The unidentified body was located roughly 25 feet from the roadway, down a 40-foot ravine covered in brush.
Currently, state troopers remain on scene conducting investigations. Efforts are underway to recover both the motorcycle and the body from the ravine while identifying the deceased and notifying the appropriate parties. A further update will be released as more information becomes available.
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