In Focus by The Hindu Trump tariffs: How can India gain from a pivot to China?
Aug 29, 2025
Cameron Johnson, a Senior Partner at Tidalwave Solutions and an expert on Chinese trade, dives into the shifting dynamics between India and China amid U.S. tariffs on Indian exports. He discusses how India can leverage its manufacturing capabilities and youthful population to navigate these challenges. The conversation covers the importance of building a robust manufacturing ecosystem, drawing strategies from China, and harnessing technology for growth. Johnson also emphasizes collaboration over competition to foster mutual economic benefits.
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Why The U.S. Uses Tariffs
- The U.S. uses tariffs for reshoring, addressing trade deficits, domestic politics, and national security.
- Tariffs on India may be a low-cost signal to influence negotiations without huge US cost.
Tariffs As A Geopolitical Signal
- The U.S. views India as a rising partner but currently prioritises China and Russia.
- Targeting India can be cheap for the U.S. while sending geopolitical signals to others.
Plan For Tariffs As A Negotiation Tool
- Assume tariffs will be used as a recurring negotiating tool by the U.S. and plan accordingly.
- Expect any U.S.-India deals to be fragile and contingent on wider geopolitical events.