Donald Trump, tariffs and China's counter punch: Anand Mahindra urges India to grab this opportunity

As tensions escalate between the United States and China over trade tariffs, industrialist Anand Mahindra believes India is being overlooked — and that could be a big mistake. On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping reciprocal tariffs on global trade partners, including a 34% duty on Chinese goods. In response, China hit back with a 34% tariff on all imports from the U.S., escalating fears of a prolonged trade war. While the spotlight has largely remained on China, the U.S. also slapped a 26% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods, citing high import duties imposed by New Delhi.

Amid this global shake-up, Mahindra sees an opening for India. Taking to X, the Mahindra Group Chairman said that while most global forums are focused on how China may benefit or retaliate, India remains a “non-topic of discussion." However, he argued that India is poised to become the world’s third-largest economy and, as the world’s largest democracy, is uniquely positioned thanks to its vast domestic consumption and strong supply chains.

Mahindra also called for a “measured reaction” to tariffs, urging India to adopt smart policies that help it emerge as the world’s most reliable economic partner — and a key pillar in a new, multipolar global order.

Internet reacts

In response to Anand Mahindra’s post on India’s strategic opportunity amid the U.S.-China trade war, several users weighed in with thought-provoking insights. One pointed out that the key isn’t just how India reacts to the current global economic tensions, but how it proactively positions itself as a reliable and stable alternative for global economies seeking dependable partners.

Another user remarked that while many people focus on outrage, they often miss the bigger picture. With rising tariffs and economic uncertainty, countries frustrated with existing trade relationships may start looking toward other major economies like India—not just for goods, but also as a potential hub for manufacturing and long-term investment.

Some also highlighted that even though India may not be the center of global discussion at the moment, that could soon change. With the right policies and positioning, India could emerge as a voice of balance and stability in a world increasingly defined by economic polarisation.