A damning new analysis spotlights India’s reform agenda amid its US trade pact. Systematics urges prioritizing openness and overhauls to thrive long-term in cutthroat markets.
Priorities are clear: dismantle inverted tariffs, grease logistics/customs wheels for cheaper inputs, champion assembly manufacturing for scale and jobs, shed protectionist skin, ink more FTAs, supercharge R&D, and untangle land-labor-skills knots.
The payoff? Advanced manufacturing prowess, GVC stronghold, and resilience to Trump-like trade wars—unlocking perpetual competitive fire.
The pact, inked February 7, 2026, mandates reciprocity. India eases tariffs on US goods—industrials, DDGS, red sorghum, nuts, fruits, soy oil, spirits. US levies 18% on Indian textiles, leather, plastics, chems, machinery; potential waivers for generics, gems, plane parts loom.
America seeks equilibrium and access. India scores with ultra-low US duties (under 18%), trumping rivals. Ministers hail momentum for employment hubs, Make in India, self-reliance.
Security tariffs vanish for aviation; auto quotas unlock. Sectors poised for explosive growth, scripting India’s economic epic.