Fareed Zakaria Criticizes Trump’s India Policy, Says India Can Replace China as US Partner

Washington: Renowned American journalist and CNN host, Fareed Zakaria, has once again criticized former President Donald Trump’s policy towards India. He stated that if the United States wishes to reduce its dependency on China, India is the ideal partner.

Zakaria emphasized that, in just three years, India has emerged as a key player in global manufacturing. He highlighted the fact that Apple now manufactures a significant portion of its iPhones in India, with the country surpassing China in iPhone exports to the United States. “Today, every latest iPhone 17 sold in the US is made in India,” Zakaria pointed out.

Zakaria Criticizes Trump’s India Policy

In his analysis, Zakaria also referenced Trump’s previous actions, noting how the 50% tariff imposed by the Trump administration on Indian goods in retaliation for India’s oil trade with Russia has damaged trust between the two countries. “Trump has undone years of diplomatic progress made by both Democratic and Republican administrations in fostering a strong relationship with India,” Zakaria asserted.

Zakaria’s latest criticism follows a new round of threats by Trump to impose tariffs on India, despite already imposing a 50% tariff on Indian goods. He noted that India has become an increasingly important partner in global trade, a reality that has only become more evident in recent years.

India’s Role in US-China Economic Relations

Zakaria further elaborated on India’s potential to replace China in the global supply chain, particularly in electronics manufacturing. “China produces many goods that the US relies on. But India is perfectly positioned to replace China in this regard,” Zakaria said.

He pointed to Apple’s decision to expand its manufacturing base in India, which has led to India becoming the largest exporter of iPhones to the United States. Today, India accounts for 44% of all iPhones sold in the US, surpassing China, which contributes only 25%. “In just three years, India has become a key player in global technology production,” Zakaria concluded.

Trump’s Adverse Impact on US-India Relations

Fareed Zakaria has been a consistent critic of Trump’s policies regarding India. In a Washington Post article from August 2025, Zakaria argued that Trump’s approach had damaged the US-India relationship, and that this would have long-term consequences for Washington’s diplomatic ties in Asia.

Zakaria further expressed concern that Trump’s policies could push India towards reconsidering its global alliances. He suggested that India might seek to strengthen its ties with Russia and improve relations with China, given its growing mistrust of the United States under Trump’s leadership.

Zakaria concluded, “Indians feel that America has shown its true colors — that it is unreliable and ready to be ruthless even with its friends. Consequently, India may feel the need to explore its alternatives and diversify its partnerships.”