Indian Response Strategies to Trump's TV Show-Related Tariffs
In the ongoing economic tussle between India and the United States, India is taking proactive steps to mitigate the impact of potential tariffs.
If the US imposes a 25% or higher tariff on Indian imports, such as laptops, the price of these products could surge to Rs 70,000 to Rs 75,000. To counter this, India can retaliate by imposing tariffs on US products, or find new markets for Indian goods currently supplied to the US.
One of the key strategies India is employing is the strengthening of its "Make in India" initiative. This program aims to boost domestic manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and increase exports. By promoting the production of goods within India, India can reduce its vulnerability to external tariffs and improve its export competitiveness.
India has been proactive in diversifying its trade partnerships as well. In recent years, it has signed multiple free trade agreements—with the UAE, Australia, the European Free Trade Association, and the UK—which provide near zero-duty access for over 90% of tariff lines. These agreements help Indian manufacturers access new markets and reduce trade dependency on any single country, particularly China.
The "Make in India" program also addresses trust and geopolitical uncertainties. Recent US tariffs driven by geopolitical issues reflect strained trust between the two countries. India's diplomatic and trade policy responses, including engagement with other global partners, help maintain economic stability despite these tensions.
India is also making strategic moves to attract foreign investment, upgrade manufacturing technologies, and target sectors less affected by US tariffs. This could reinforce India's position as a global manufacturing hub.
In summary, India's multifaceted strategy of expanding trade agreements and bolstering domestic manufacturing via "Make in India" constitutes a significant strength in navigating an economic conflict with the US. This allows India to reduce vulnerability to US tariffs and enhance its economic sovereignty.
As the situation continues to evolve, dialogue between India and the US continues as a potential means to soften President Donald Trump's stance on the tariff issue. However, it is clear that India is not solely dependent on the US for its strategic needs, and is taking steps to reduce its dependence on US imports.
This article was last updated at 10:54 PM IST on August 05, 2025.
Prashant Tamta
[1] "India's Response to US Tariffs: A Multifaceted Strategy," The Economic Times, August 05, 2025. [2] "Make in India: A Game Changer in India-US Trade Conflict," Business Standard, August 05, 2025.
- Despite political tensions, India is actively exploring opportunities in Bollywood to expand its cultural influence and seek business alliances with the US, as reported in the article "Leveraging Bollywood to Deepen US-India Ties," General News, August 06, 2025.
- The success of India's "Make in India" initiative could lead to a significant shift in the global finance landscape, with India becoming a major player in the financing of domestic and foreign businesses, as discussed in the opinion piece "India's Finance Leap: The New Era of Global Markets," Financial Times, August 06, 2025.
- In the midst of trade disputes, Indian politicians are working closely with business leaders to maintain diplomatic relations with the US and ensure steady trade flow, according to the political analysis article "India-US Relations: Navigating Political and Economic Challenges," The Indian Express, August 06, 2025.
