In a boost to Indo-US economic ties, key Indian-American influencers have applauded the breakthrough trade pact, even as experts flag unresolved queries on its scope and impact.
Asha Jadeja Motwani, a prominent venture investor tied to Republican circles, disclosed insider buzz from the Trump team predating the announcement. ‘We knew February would bring clarity, but not this swiftly,’ she told reporters. Optimistic about PM Modi’s energy shift from Russia to US-aligned supplies, Motwani lauded the 25-to-18% tariff slash as ‘the best possible result.’
She spotlighted India’s rising stature in Washington’s eyes for energy, defense, and tech collaborations, calling for swift private-sector deals to capitalize on renewed momentum.
Taking a cautious stance, ex-Commerce official Raymond Vickery credited the pact with stemming relational erosion from tariff wars and visa hurdles. While endorsing the rate drop, he probed specifics: which products qualify? Concerns linger over agriculture, dairy, and grains.
The touted $500 billion extra buys seem inflated against $200 billion baseline trade, Vickery cautioned, labeling it ‘unrealistic.’
CSIS expert Rick Rossow marveled at trade’s 16% surge amid 2025 tariffs, fueled by pharma waivers. Noting a late-year dip, he views this as Phase One, easing US market entry for Indian goods via standard tariffs.
Republican voice Neeraj Antani termed it a ‘decisive win,’ spotlighting mutual cuts and oil diversification. ‘Our democracies unite to break deadlocks past governments couldn’t,’ he said.
Businessman Yogi Chugh sees a strategic edge for overseas Indians, enhancing trust amid global rivalries.
Despite hurdles like market barriers and politics, trade ballooned to $200 billion. Now, synergies in critical areas like minerals and defense promise deeper ties, pending detailed disclosures.