The growing economic pressure from the US and NATO on India through taxes, digital trade policies, and sanctions — and how India is responding with diplomacy and self-reliance.
India is no longer just a developing country — it’s a rising global power. But with that rise comes pressure from dominant players like the United States and NATO countries, who are reportedly using economic tools such as taxes, tariffs, and trade barriers to keep India aligned with Western interests.
This pressure increased notably after India refused to condemn Russia during the Ukraine war and continued to buy oil from Moscow. As India strengthens its position in BRICS, pushes for rupee-based trade, and maintains a neutral global stance, America and NATO have responded with indirect economic retaliation.
How America Is Pressuring India
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Tariffs & Trade Sanctions:
The US reimposed tariffs on Indian steel and aluminum under Section 232.
Source -
Digital Services Tax Dispute:
India’s 2% tax on digital services like Google, Amazon, and Facebook was opposed by the U.S. under its Section 301 probe.
Source (Reuters) -
Pressure to Cut Russian Oil Imports:
The U.S. has repeatedly warned India against its purchase of discounted Russian crude oil.
Source (CNBC)
NATO’s Strategic Influence
NATO doesn't tax India directly, but influences trade norms through:
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Push for carbon border taxes, which hurt India’s industrial exports.
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Support for data localization restrictions that conflict with India’s tech sovereignty goals.
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Diplomatic moves to isolate Russia, indirectly targeting India’s strategic allies.
India’s Bold Response
India is not backing down:
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It’s increasing regional trade within South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
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Advocating for a multipolar world at the G20, BRICS, and UN forums.
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Boosting self-reliant industries under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, especially in defense, semiconductors, and renewables.
India is also working with Iran (Chabahar Port) and Russia (INSTC) to reduce dependence on Western supply chains.
Conclusion
The West is no longer dealing with a dependent India. It’s dealing with an emerging global power that refuses to be bullied. Whether through taxes, digital trade threats, or subtle NATO-driven policies, the pressure on India is real — but so is India’s resilience.
India’s next move? Stay neutral, stay strong, and stay ahead
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Want to understand India’s foreign policy mindset in today’s complex world?
Read “The India Way” by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar — a brilliant guide to how India navigates global pressure and asserts strategic autonomy.
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