India Emerges as a Trusted Global Value Chain Partner: Ashwini Vaishnaw at Davos

iamramdharsan
Jan 22
2 min read

Davos, 22 January 2026:India has solidified its position as a trusted value chain partner for the global economy, helping it remain resilient amid high tariffs and global trade uncertainty, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said at the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos.

Vaishnaw spoke at a WEF session developed in collaboration with the India Today Group, moderated by Kalli Purie, Group Vice-Chairperson and Executive Editor-in-Chief.

Resilience Amid Global Tariffs

Addressing the impact of tariffs imposed by the US and other countries, Vaishnaw emphasized India’s economic resilience:

“We are a very resilient economy. The fundamentals, macro as well as micro, are very strong. That’s really helped us through this turbulent period.”

He added that despite global trade disruptions, India’s exports continue to grow. “Our producers are finding new markets. We are growing our export sector in multiple ways,” he noted.

Electronics Exports Lead the Way

A significant transformation in India’s export profile has been the rise of electronics exports, now the third-largest export category, after engineered goods and petroleum products.

“This was unbelievable even five years ago. Today, it is a reality and a remarkable shift,” Vaishnaw said.

Diversifying Trade and Building Partnerships

India is actively diversifying its trade markets and pursuing balanced agreements with multiple countries, including the UK, Switzerland, UAE, Qatar, Australia, and New Zealand, with ongoing discussions in Europe.

“We’re expanding into new geographies while engaging in healthy, mutually complementary trade agreements,” he added.

From Supply Chain to Value Chain Partner

Vaishnaw highlighted a critical evolution in India’s global manufacturing role:

“A supply chain partner manufactures to your designs. A value chain partner participates in design, understands customer needs, and adds value throughout the process.”

This shift has positioned India as a key contributor to global innovation, not just production.

Semiconductors: Proof of India’s Value Chain Leadership

Using the semiconductor industry as an example, Vaishnaw noted how perceptions have shifted:

“Three years ago, people doubted India could manufacture semiconductors. Today, the entire industry sees India as the most important trusted value chain partner.”

He emphasized that trust and strategic positioning are crucial in navigating global economic turbulence.

Key Takeaways

India’s exports continue to grow despite global trade uncertainties.
Electronics exports are now a major contributor to India’s export basket.
India is expanding trade into new geographies with balanced agreements.
Shift from supply chain to value chain partner strengthens India’s global role.
Semiconductor sector exemplifies India’s emerging leadership in high-tech manufacturing.