Chinese scholars have strongly criticized recent statements by Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who described U.S.-imposed reciprocal tariffs as an “opportunity of a lifetime” while attributing global economic instability to China’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2000. Analysts argue that India’s concessions to Washington may invite further demands to address the U.S.-India trade deficit, exacerbating tensions.
Speaking at the India Global Forum in Mumbai, Goyal asserted, “We stand at a moment in history where India is well poised to convert the current situation into an opportunity,” adding, “We have an opportunity of a lifetime.” He linked today’s economic challenges to China’s WTO entry, stating, “The starting point of this [global churn] actually goes to the beginning of 2000 when China was admitted as a member of the WTO.”
Long Xingchun, a professor at Sichuan International Studies University’s School of International Relations, dismissed Goyal’s claims as a tactic to “gain exemptions from the U.S.” amid ongoing trade negotiations. Similarly, Tsinghua University’s Indian studies assistant professor Xie Chao characterized the remarks as “opportunistic,” accusing India of seeking trade advantages by aligning with U.S. rhetoric against China. “The Indian politician’s remarks merely echo U.S. rhetoric to discredit China, hoping to gain favor with the Trump administration,” Xie stated.
The critique comes as the U.S. recently imposed 26% tariffs on select Indian imports, part of broader reciprocal measures. While other nations retaliated with tariffs, India has avoided escalation, prioritizing ongoing trade pact discussions. Goyal downplayed immediate economic risks, claiming negotiations are “going in the right direction” and assuring stakeholders that “India’s best interests” remain paramount.
Analysts, however, warn that India’s conciliatory approach could backfire. Xie cautioned that U.S. precedent—such as harsh responses to Vietnam and the EU—suggests further demands to offset the $32.8 billion U.S.-India trade deficit. Long added that India’s manufacturing limitations, high costs, and reliance on Chinese supply chains undermine its capacity to fill gaps left by U.S.-China trade restrictions.
Amid rising tensions, Chinese Embassy spokesperson in India Yu Jing urged solidarity, posting on social media platform X: “Facing the U.S. abuse of tariffs, which deprives Global South countries of their right to development, the two largest developing nations should stand together.” She emphasized multilateralism, rejecting “unilateralism and protectionism” as counterproductive.
Despite Goyal’s optimism, analysts estimate U.S. tariffs could reduce India’s GDP growth by 20–40 basis points, highlighting the precarious balance between diplomatic maneuvering and economic reality.