New Delhi, April 9, 2025 – As Donald Trump’s 104% tariffs on Chinese imports hit today, Beijing’s subtle nod to India—a call for “openness” in trade—has sparked fresh chatter about the uneasy neighbors’ relationship. Hours after the US levy kicked in at 12:01 AM ET, China’s Foreign Ministry urged New Delhi to resist “third-party disruptions” and boost economic ties, a message experts see as a jab at Trump’s trade war reshaping alliances.
The tariffs, piling 50% atop last week’s 34% duty, follow China’s refusal to drop its own 34% levy on US goods—a standoff now rippling worldwide. Premier Li Qiang vowed resilience, but spokesperson Lin Jian’s appeal to India stood out: “Mutual benefit outweighs conflict,” he said, per NDTV, hinting at talks over border tensions and trade gaps. It’s no secret—India’s $85 billion trade deficit with China in 2024 (The Hindu) stings, yet 70% of its electronics and pharma inputs still flow from across the Himalayas.
For India, Trump’s move is a double-edged sword. Exporters could grab US market share—textiles, maybe tech—but his 10% global tariff looms large. “We’re navigating a tightrope,” a commerce ministry official told The Indian Express. China’s pitch comes as Modi’s government eyes self-reliance, cutting reliance on Beijing since the 2020 Galwan clash. Yet, with Xi Jinping set to meet Modi at the BRICS Summit next month, could this be a thaw?
Analysts aren’t sold. “China’s playing nice to offset US pressure—it’s not trust,” a Delhi think-tank voice said. Posts on X echo the skepticism—one user quipped, “Beijing’s olive branch feels like a bamboo stick.” Data backs the wariness: border skirmishes persist, and India’s banned 300+ Chinese apps since 2020. Still, trade’s a lifeline—two-way volume hit $118 billion last year despite the chill.
Trump’s tariffs might nudge India closer to the US, but China’s too big to ignore. The real test? Balancing Atmanirbhar goals with global realities—can New Delhi leverage this chaos without getting burned?
