From Iselin to India: What we learned about tariffs, trade and trust

Iselin, New Jersey

It’s Diwali season — a five-day period when Hindus around the world commemorate the triumph of light over darkness on the Indian subcontinent centuries ago. But the colorful Diwali celebrations held annually in Indian-American communities throughout the United States are more muted this year compared to the past. The reason? Prices on everything from saris to spices have skyrocketed since August 27. That was the day President Trump imposed 50% tariffs on goods imported from India.

The tariffs are pounding the hundreds of South Asian-themed stores here in Iselin and in neighboring Edison, which collectively represent “Little India.” On a recent tour along the area’s Oak Tree Road (the subject of an Emmy-nominated documentary directed by Indian-American journalist Ro