2 hours ago
Last Updated:August 27, 2025, 17:48 IST
Kirti Vardhan Singh said that tariffs won’t hinder India’s economic growth while highlighting that its trade with African nations has surpassed the $100 billion milestone.
At the India-Africa Conclave, Union Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh said tariffs were unfair but hailed booming trade and investments that bind the two regions closer. (IMAGE: @FollowCII/X)
Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh on Wednesday described the recent tariff measures imposed on India as “highly unjustified and unfair," stressing that New Delhi must prioritise actions that “serve our national interest best." Singh was speaking with CNN-News18 on the sidelines of the 20th CII India-Africa Business Conclave in the national capital.
“The reasons cited for imposing these tariffs on our country apply equally to many others who continue importing energy from the same sources, yet they face no such restrictions," Singh said. “This is a clear case of unjustified and discriminatory tariff imposition."
Singh pointed out that India will always focus on ties that are mutually beneficial and take steps that serves its national interest.
“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."
Despite these challenges, the minister highlighted India’s economic resilience. “Our economy remains strong, capable of withstanding pressures and continuing on the path of growth," he said.
Singh also underscored the importance of India-Africa ties. He highlighted that decision by PM Modi was to include the African Union in the G20 in a bid to give Africa its rightful voice on the global stage was a landmark decision as G20 host in 2023.
India-Africa trade has crossed USD 100 billion, with New Delhi emerging as one of the top five investors on the continent, Singh highlighted.
“India has extended concessional loans worth over USD 12 billion and USD 700 million in grant assistance for projects across Africa, apart from offering 50,000 scholarships for African youth, of which more than 42,000 have already been utilised."
“Our trade with Africa goes back hundreds of years. It is a relationship built on trust and continuity. Africa has immense potential and resources; India sees the continent as a natural partner. The Indian diaspora has not only settled in Africa but has deeply integrated into local societies," he said.
Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ...Read More
Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ...
Read More
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Location : First Published:August 27, 2025, 17:11 IST
News business 'Discriminatory': Kirti Vardhan Singh Slams Tariffs, Boasts India’s Growing Clout In Africa
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