Import Control from China is Now Necessary – Dr. Jayantilal Bhandari
Following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, China openly supported Pakistan in its actions against India, even supplying weapons including missiles. However, these weapons failed to affect India’s strong and effective defense system across land, water, and air.
China’s actions reflect its indirect attempt to hinder India’s rise as a global economic power. In response, it is imperative that India take strict economic measures, including controlling imports from China.
India-China Trade Imbalance
Recent data shows a widening trade deficit between India and China. In FY 2024-25, India’s exports to China dropped by 14.5% to $14.25 billion, while imports from China rose by 11.52% to $113.45 billion, increasing the trade deficit to $99.2 billion.
Despite strategic measures, dependence on Chinese goods remains high. China is India's second-largest trading partner with bilateral trade hitting $127.7 billion in 2024-25.
Failed Diplomacy and New Realities
In October last year, India and China attempted to renew diplomatic warmth during Diwali celebrations and BRICS Summit talks. Agreements on troop withdrawals in Ladakh brought short-term calm, but did not curb China’s long-term hostile agenda.
India missed the opportunity to restrain imports, and China continues to benefit from India's vast consumer market.
China’s Strategy Against India’s Economic Rise
China seeks to stall India’s economic progress by empowering Pakistan. But India is poised to become the fourth-largest economy by the end of 2025 with a projected GDP of $4.187 trillion, overtaking Japan.
According to the IMF and rating agency Morningstar DBRS, India remains the fastest-growing major economy. India’s GST revenue reached ₹2.09 lakh crore in April 2025 – an all-time high. Fiscal consolidation and investment-led reforms are strengthening India’s global economic standing.
Time for Strategic Economic Action
India must intensify its efforts to reduce imports from China and support domestic manufacturing. Since 2019-20, the push for local goods has grown under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, and now it must be reinforced with a nationwide campaign to boycott Chinese products.
Conclusion
Post-Operation Sindoor, where Pakistan used Chinese arms, India must deliver an economic blow to China through import restrictions. This move will not only challenge China’s export growth but will empower Indian MSMEs and domestic industries.