Why India Can’t Accept China’s ‘Zero-Tariff’ Offer Despite Its Market Appeal | World News

New Delhi: After pointing out the possibility of higher tariffs in Indian exports, US President Donald Trump renewed his field to bring India to the Asian trade market. The proposal, which expands access to a large consumer base, is positioned as a strategic opportunity. However, analysts say the proposal can create a much more important challenge for India than Trump’s tariff threats.

India’s market is very big. Combined with a population of 1.4 billion, a growing middle class and strong purchasing force, it makes it one of the most attractive markets in the world. Global powers cannot obtain maximum economic leverage in the region without India’s participation.

In response to the increasing pressure of Washington, China once again invited India to participate in the regional comprehensive economic partnership (RCCEP).

Beijing has been lobbying to include the new Delhi in RCEP since 2019 and offers zero tariffs as a key incentive. Nevertheless, India has decreased many times. It is careful against Beijing’s ambitions and potential risks for domestic industries.

UNDERSTAND RCEP

RCEP is a free trade agreement covering 15 countries: 10 ASEAN members and five free trade agreements (FTA) partners-China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. RCEP is the world’s largest trade block, which represents approximately 30 percent of Global GDP and covers approximately three billion people.

The agreement aims to simplify trade rules, reduce obstacles and integrate the markets of member states. RCEP, which was signed on November 2020, entered into force on January 1, 2022. Primary objectives include lowering or eliminating tariffs, alleviating non -tariff restrictions, and facilitating cross -border investment and trade.

China’s perspective

China’s Global Times, operated by the state, emphasized India’s increasing fragility, especially in the light of the 50 percent tariff increases proposed by Trump. The newspaper argued that the diversity of Asian markets not only reduces risks, but also provides strategic flexibility and more market opportunities to India.

According to Daily, India should actively discover alternative markets. Asia’s wide economies and unused potential can provide a more stable way for growth to India. The article argued that joining RCEP would represent a critical step towards reconstructing the trade orientation of India in the region.

The publication also emphasized “long -term benefits .. For the next 10 to 15 years, RCEP’s zero tariff frame may be valid for 90 percent of the goods. For India, Daily says it can serve as a protective buffer against the volatility of US trade policies while opening access to a dynamic and growing market.

India’s concerns

India has constantly expressed reservations about RCEP. The government believes that the agreement does not adequately reflect India’s interests and have unstable consequences. The primary concern is the potential effect on domestic industries. Cheap imports from China and other Asian countries can dilute the Indian market by undermining local production and making it difficult for Indian products to compete.

China’s production efficiency increases this risk. India proposed mechanisms to limit the imports of certain goods exceeding certain thresholds, but negotiations could not consider.

India also faces an important trade deficit with China, which reached $ 99.2 billion in 2024-25 financially. Participating in RCEP without securing it can worsen this imbalance. The inclusion of India for China is both an economic and geopolitical priority, supporting regional domination and belt and road attempt.

India continues to give priority to national interests, self -confidence and strategic autonomy. The government aims to maintain control over supply chains and to propose a strong position in any scenario that can challenge its trade against China or its geopolitical stance.