First China faced a boycott, now its America's turn—Trump, don't underestimate India's 140 crore people

Boycott America: US President Donald Trump is riding on a runaway chariot of tariffs. Mr. President is making decisions based solely on his personal profit, behaving more like a rigid businessman than a world leader. Trump first threatens to impose tariffs arbitrarily, then forces trade deals on his terms. He tried the same tactic with India, imposing a 50% tariff, but he forgot that today’s India is strong and self-reliant.

India is the fourth-largest economy in the world, with a population of 1.4 billion and a massive market that attracts companies from across the globe. By calling India a "dead economy," Trump has shown his limited understanding of global economics.

Demand for Boycott of American Products Rising

Following the US decision to impose a 50% tax on Indian goods, a movement to boycott American brands is gaining momentum in India. From business leaders to the general public, there is visible anger and frustration. People are urging others to avoid American products—from McDonald's to Coca-Cola—and to support Made-in-India alternatives instead.

The movement is spreading rapidly—from social media platforms to the streets.

RBI Governor Responds with Data

When Trump labeled India a "dead economy," the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) responded with hard-hitting data, clearly outlining the strength and resilience of the Indian economy.

Trouble Brewing for American Companies in India

If the boycott gains further traction, American companies like McDonald's, KFC, Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Amazon, Apple, Google, Facebook, Meta, Domino’s, Starbucks, Forever 21, Timex, Maybelline New York, Fossil India, Nike, Levi’s, Skechers, Gap, and Citigroup could suffer massive setbacks.

Many of these companies earn substantial profits from their Indian operations. For example, Tesla recently opened a showroom targeting Indian customers, while Apple revised its global plans under pressure and is now investing ₹8.4 lakh crore in the US instead of expanding further in India.

Where Are the American Products in Your Home?

American products have a significant presence in every Indian household—from the kitchen and bathroom to the bedroom and personal care items.

• E-commerce & Tech: Amazon, Google, Facebook, Twitter
• FMCG: Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Kinley, Kurkure, Lays, Whisper, Tide, Vicks, Colgate, Johnson & Johnson
• Food & Beverages: Maggi, Nescafé, KitKat, Nestlé (note: Swiss origin but often considered Western), Huggies, Kellogg’s, Cadbury (owned by Mondelez, a US company), Bournvita, Oreo
• Cleaning & Personal Care: Ariel, Tide, Head & Shoulders, Pantene, Lux, Lifebuoy, Dove, Surf Excel
• Oral Hygiene: Colgate-Palmolive posted ₹1,434 crore in business in India in just the first quarter

Outside the home, American fast-food chains like McDonald’s, Domino’s, and KFC dominate the urban foodscape.

India Already Taught China a Lesson

Before America, India had already demonstrated its strength during the 2020 Galwan Valley clash by boycotting Chinese products. According to the Ministry of Commerce, there was a 25–40% decline in Chinese imports, directly affecting Chinese exporters and industries.

India, with its vast and growing consumer base, has become a critical market. Any country distancing itself from India risks heavy economic consequences.

America Could Suffer Huge Losses

According to the US COMTRADE database, India imported goods worth $38.99 billion from the US last year. These included apples, packaged foods, whiskey, wine, chocolates, and more. If relations deteriorate further, this trade could take a serious hit.

PC:Zeenews