"Stay In Your Lane, India": Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal Responds to 50% Trump Tariffs with a Bold Solution

Zomato co-founder and CEO Deepinder Goyal has sharply criticised the United States’ latest decision to impose steep tariffs on Indian imports, calling it a moment for India to embrace its role as a global force.

“Every few years, the world reminds us of our place. A threat here, a tariff there. But the message is the same: stay in your lane, India.”

He added, "Global powers will always bully us, unless we take our destiny in our own hands. And the only way to do that is if we collectively decide to become the world's largest most unapologetic superpower in the world. In economy, in technology, in defense, and most importantly, in ambition. There is absolutely no other way."

Goyal made the remarks soon after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday, adding a 25% tariff to Indian goods, thus increasing total duties to 50%. The White House defended the action by citing India's continued trade relationships with Russia, most notably the purchase of Russian oil and defense systems.

The initial 25% tariff began at dawn on August 7, as per the directive. An added layer of duties will be imposed from August 27, after a grace period of 21 days.

Former CEO of NITI Aayog and India's G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, also commented on the development. He said, "Trump has given us a once in a generation opportunity to take the next big leap on reforms. Crisis must be fully utilised."

The higher tariffs are likely to impact a broad range of Indian exports, making them less price-competitive in the US market. Among the key sectors impacted include:

Seafood and agriculture: Particularly shrimps and organic pesticides
Textile industry: Apparel, carpets, and finished fabric
Jewellery and metals: Gemstones, jewellery, steel, aluminium, and copper
Manufactured goods: Machinery, mechanical equipment, furniture, and bedding
Vehicles and fuel: Motorcars will now attract a 26% import tariff, while petroleum products will have a 6.9% duty

Trade analysts caution that India's exporters could face an even higher cost burden in the next few months, which could result in a loss of share in the US market—a major export destination.

Official reaction from India is still pending, but policymakers are likely to convene high-level meetings to evaluate the economic as well as diplomatic fallout from the US action.