India Slams ‘Unjustified and Unfair Tariffs’ While Stepping Up Trade Ties with Africa
At the opening ceremony of the 20th CII India-Africa Business Conclave 2025 (#IABC2025) on 27th August 2025, Indian Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Singh slammed the ‘unjustified and unfair’ tariffs imposed by Trump upon India. He called out the hypocrisy of the policy as certain countries continue to import oil and gas from Russia without facing such punitive measures.
In these tumultuous times, the India-Africa ties thus shine as a beacon of hope. Indeed, India-Africa trade crossed the USD 100 billion mark for the fiscal year 2024-2025 ending on 30th June 2025, displaying a robust 20% growth compared to USD 83 billion in FY 2023-2024. Furthermore, India has extended concessional loans over USD 12 billion to Africa and has provided grants worth USD 700 million for high-impact community projects across Africa.
“In this changing landscape, we must focus on what serves our national interest best, which is fostering linkages that are mutually beneficial rather than exploitative. Our economy remains strong, capable of withstanding pressures and continuing on the path of growth.”
India Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Singh
Going forward, the India-Africa relationship is expected to go from strength to strength. Both sides identified a number of priority sectors ripe for collaboration:
- Agriculture and Food Processing
- Defence
- Physical and Digital Connectivity
- Banking and Financial Partnership
- Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
- Power and Energy
- Skill and Capacity Development.
Minister Singh seized the opportunity to recall the historic ties between India and Africa that goes back centuries. Africa has rich resources and India is poised to become the world 3rd largest economy. Thus, the India-Africa partnership is a compelling and natural one. In addition, the strong and dynamic Indian Diaspora in Africa is well integrated into local societies and is playing a catalytic role in boosting cooperation between the two sides.