The year 2025 was the year of trade deals and India performed brilliantly. When US President Donald Trump rejected the Equal Trade Agreement and imposed tariffs to put pressure on several countries, including India, India chose the path of open trade. India has signed agreements with many countries and initiated dialogue with many others. In an era of global geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions and weaponization of tariffs, India’s trade policy looks more confident than ever.
While the US under Trump has tried to speed up bilateral agreements by applying tariff pressure, India has shown neither haste nor compromise on its policies. In contrast, India quickly concluded trade deals with New Zealand, Oman and Britain, making it clear that India was no longer reactive but taking decisions in its long-term national interest.
India did not succumb to the pressure
In 2025, the US showed haste on trade deals and used tariffs as a weapon of pressure. Higher duties were imposed on India’s exports and penalties were also threatened on energy trade with Russia. The objective was clear to get quick concessions from India in sensitive sectors like agriculture and dairy.
But India did not budge. The government made it clear that any agreement would be made keeping in mind the country’s economic realities and food security. India has flatly refused to open up the dairy sector, which involves millions of small farmers. This was not a delay, but a solid strategic decision. Similarly, haste was avoided in the agricultural sector as well.
Where there was respect there was compromise
Unlike the US, talks with New Zealand, Oman and Britain took place without pressure. The agreement with Britain was balanced with the interests of Indian professionals, service sector and manufacturing in mind. In the agreement with New Zealand, care was taken not to adversely affect India’s agriculture and dairying. The deal with Oman strengthens India’s supply chain and energy security in the Gulf region. The special feature of these three agreements was trust. There was no coercion here, nor any artificial deadlines.
India’s Strategy: Keeping Options Ready
India no longer wants to depend on any one market. Dialogue with the European Union, Peru, Chile, GCC countries and Canada is part of this thinking. This reduces the impact of pressure on India from any one country and increases strategic independence.
Indian way of doing business
India is not keeping distance from America. The conversation continues, but now the equations have changed. Successful deals with other countries have made it clear that the US market is not necessary at any price. India’s Trade Policy 2025 shows that austerity and flexibility can go hand in hand. Where there is pressure, India will stand firm. Where there is respect there will be reconciliation. In India it is the art of dealing wisely, at the right time and with long-term benefits in mind.