Trade Tensions Between US and China Impact India's Manufacturing Sector

INIndia|

New Delhi: The ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China are adversely affecting India's manufacturing sector, particularly in industries heavily reliant on Chinese imports. As Donald Trump prepares for his return to the presidency on January 20, potential trade and tariff wars loom, prompting China to implement precautionary export restrictions.

India's 'Make in India' initiative aimed to boost manufacturing across various sectors, including solar power, electronics, and electric vehicles. However, China's recent bans on crucial exports—such as gallium and germanium, essential for solar panels, and lithium for battery production—pose significant challenges for Indian firms. These restrictions affect not only exports to the United States but also other nations that rely on Chinese components for their manufacturing processes.

Economic analysts, such as Ajay Srivastava of the Global Trade Research Initiative, have noted major disruptions for Indian companies in the electronics and solar sectors. As India imported $101.73 billion in goods from China in 2023-24, the heightened trade friction underscores India's vulnerability. The Indian government previously imposed restrictions on Chinese investments following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, leading to increased geopolitical tensions.

India's reliance on Chinese raw materials and components remains a pressing concern as manufacturers navigate these evolving trade dynamics. Stakeholders hope for a resolution that could mitigate the adverse effects of China's export limitations while strengthening bilateral trade relations.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from India

India Strikes Pakistan Airbases, Claims Major Damage to Air Force Assets

India's Air Force conducted a precision strike on May 10, targeting 11 military airbases in Pakistan, reportedly damaging 20% of its air force infrastructure and resulting in over 50 fatalities, including Squadron Leader Usman Yusuf. According to top government sources, the attacks focused on key installations including Bholari and Sargodha, where F-16 and JF-17 fighter jets are stationed. In comments to the media, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that this strike marks a significant milestone, making India the first nation to attack the airbases of a nuclear-armed country in a single operation. Official reports indicate that the operation inflicted heavy casualties at Bholari airbase and led to the destruction of several fighter jets. The operation followed an earlier strike on May 7, dubbed Operation Sindoor, which reportedly killed over 100 terrorists in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Satellite imagery has shown the extent of the damage at various airbases, including Shahbaz and Noor Khan. The use of kamikaze drones in the operation was noted as a crucial element in neutralizing Pakistan's air defense capabilities.
INIndia

Bangladeshi Islamist Threatens Kolkata with Taliban-Style Attacks

A video surfaced on social media in which a man, identified as a Bangladeshi Islamist, openly threatened to launch Taliban-style attacks in Kolkata, India, including potential suicide bombings against Hindus. In the footage, which was shared by the 'Voice of Bangladeshi Hindus' on May 12, 2025, the individual made derogatory remarks about Hindus, expressing confidence in executing such a plan if given the backing of the Bangladeshi military. The speaker claimed, “If the Bangladesh army gives me permission, here’s what I will do – I’ll send the most suicide bombers to Kolkata,” further elaborating on his intent to intimidate and attack Hindu communities. The video has raised alarms, particularly amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists. The Indian military recently conducted 'Operation Sindoor', targeting terror groups in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, escalating existing geopolitical anxieties, according to the Indian Directorate General of Military Operations.
INIndia

Alleged Murder of 10-Year-Old in Guwahati Sparks Outrage

A 10-year-old boy was allegedly murdered by his mother's lover in Guwahati, Assam, with his body discovered stuffed inside a suitcase. According to police reports, the incident came to light after the boy's mother filed a missing persons report, stating he had not returned home from tuition on Saturday. The investigation led authorities to Jitumoni Haloi, the mother's partner, who subsequently confessed to the crime and revealed the location of the suitcase containing the victim's body. The remains were found on the outskirts of the city, hidden near some bushes. In connection with the case, the police have arrested Haloi and detained the boy's mother for questioning regarding her potential involvement in the murder. The victim’s father, who is separated from the boy's mother, has also provided a statement to the police as the investigation continues. The incident has unsettled the local community, prompting calls for increased vigilance regarding child safety.
INIndia