At the ET World Leadership Forum 2025, Chandrababu Naidu addressed concerns about potential economic roadblocks, specifically U.S. tariffs, emphasizing that they represent a brief and surmountable challenge that cannot impede India's progress. Naidu's remarks underscored his confidence in India's economic trajectory and its resilience in the face of global economic headwinds.
Naidu, the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and a supporter of the NDA, has consistently highlighted India's growing status as a global economic powerhouse. He has previously stated that India is expected to contribute the highest incremental global GDP by 2027. Addressing the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) at the World Economic Forum meeting earlier this year, he noted the significant contributions of Indian entrepreneurs, particularly those from Andhra Pradesh, to the global economy.
Naidu has lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and vision in steering the country through economic challenges. He has also expressed optimism that India will rank among the top two economies globally by 2047, with Indians leading in wealth creation. This vision aligns with the "Viksit Bharat 2047" plan, which envisions India as a global superpower.
In response to remarks made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who had described India as a "dead economy," Naidu asserted that India is, in fact, the fastest-growing major economy in the world. He dismissed the notion that increased taxes or duties could halt India's progress, calling such beliefs "nothing more than their imagination". He also cautioned against denying jobs to Indians abroad, warning that countries would soon realize they cannot develop without Indian talent.
The Chief Minister highlighted that India's economic reforms, which began in 1991, along with its first-mover advantage in IT and its demographic dividend, have provided the country with the capacity for significant growth. He stated that India has the "right time, the right plan, and the right man—PM Narendra Modi".
Piyush Goyal, the Commerce Minister, echoed a similar sentiment at the WLF event, expressing confidence in Indian exporters' ability to thrive even without U.S. trade, amidst ongoing trade negotiations and tariffs.
The Economic Times World Leaders Forum is a platform where global leaders, top MNC CEOs, influential thought leaders, and policymakers converge to exchange ideas and collaborate for progress. The theme for this year's forum is "The Next Global Order: Power, Purpose & Partnership". Key issues being discussed at the forum include: * Issues Shaping The Global Economy * AI as an innovation driver * The future of sustainable energy * Navigating global power shifts * Adapting to evolving consumer preferences * Shaping the workforce for the future * Strengthening global trade & alliance
Other speakers at the ET World Leaders Forum 2025 include Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry.
