India Dominates over 60% share in key US imports: in Cumin, Lab-Grown Diamonds, Carpets & More

India dominated the U.S. import market in 2024, accounting for over 60% of imports in a number of important product categories, including carpets, table linen, lab-grown diamonds, and cumin, according to a new Moneycontrol report.

Leading Segments

• Cumin: India provided nearly 92% of all cumin imports into the United States, making it an indispensable spice supplier to food chains and restaurants, including fast-casual brands.
• Lab-Grown Diamonds: India also supplied around 92% of lab-grown diamonds imported by the U.S., a segment used extensively by companies marketing sustainable jewellery, such as Brilliant Earth. 
• Rugs & Carpets: India accounted for approximately 83% of U.S. carpet and rug imports in 2024.
• Table Linen: Indian table linen made up about 73% of U.S. imports in this category.

Overall, these four divisions comprise approximately $3 billion in U.S. import commerce, where India's stake surpasses 60%. Additionally, more than 40% of India's exports to the US are dependent on American imports, accounting for one-fifth of the country's whole export footprint.

Context of U.S. Tariff Surge

The report comes in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump’s July 30, 2025, announcement, introducing a 25% tariff plus a penalty on all Indian imports from August 1. The rationale cited includes India’s high domestic tariffs, non-tariff trade barriers, and India’s ongoing purchases of Russian energy.

While India dominates certain niches, its overall exposure to the U.S. market is less intense. Analysts note that a smaller set of product lines contributes to the disproportionate reliance in U.S. sourcing decisions.

Implications for U.S. Supply Chains

• Disruption Risk: U.S. companies relying on Indian supplies—especially in restaurants, home furnishing, and jewellery sectors—face potential supply disruption or higher sourcing costs.
• Replacement Challenges: Substituting Indian-origin goods would require new suppliers, likely at greater cost and complexity. Even sectors with less than 60% dependence may prove difficult to replace.

Comparative Advantage

India’s high share in these specific import categories underscores its competitive edge in price, quality, and market penetration. However, other U.S. trading partners like Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia benefit from lower existing tariffs (19–20% range), potentially drawing demand away from India. Sensex, Nifty declined as market participants cited multiple headwinds including foreign fund outflows, global cues and Trump's tariffs.

Strategic and Trade-Leverage Dynamics

The tariff move by the U.S. may strain economic relations, but it does not necessarily reflect strategic disengagement. India continues to play a key role in U.S. sourcing for these high-dependency goods. The tariff imposition may, however, prompt businesses to diversify import channels or lobby for carve-outs in trade negotiations. 

Conclusion

India’s strong presence—over 60% share—in niche U.S. imports like cumin, lab-grown diamonds, carpets, and table linen highlights its importance in American supply chains. With the sudden imposition of a 25% tariff from August 1, U.S. buyers now face risks of cost increase and sourcing upheaval. As negotiations progress, India’s dominant role in these segments will influence both trade stability and any talks on exemptions or relief.