India’s Geopolitical Importance Grows in U.S. Business Landscape, Says USISPF Leader

India plays a crucial geopolitical role from an American perspective, particularly in manufacturing, according to Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of the US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF). He emphasized that India offers U.S. companies a vital opportunity to de-risk their supply chains from China.

Aghi highlighted India’s remarkable economic growth, with the country among the few large economies expanding at a rate of seven to eight percent. “India is not just a market opportunity, it is becoming a hub for manufacturing,” he stated, noting the rise of global capability centers in the country.

As India continues to grow, Mukesh Aghi, expects its economy to gain further momentum in 2025, with service exports nearing USD 125 billion. His comments come ahead of the upcoming India Leadership Summit on October 14, where top American business leaders, including CEOs from Fortune 100 companies, will gather in New Delhi to discuss and strengthen the India-U.S. partnership.

The summit will feature engaging sessions and panels focused on key issues such as trade, defense, technology, and energy. Aghi described the USISPF as a facilitator for connecting American companies with opportunities in India, aiming to attract investment, create jobs, and integrate advanced technology into the Indian market.

Aghi also noted that tensions between China and the U.S. are likely to escalate, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming presidential election. He pointed out that China may not view India as an equal partner, prompting India to approach its relationship with China with caution.

Highlighting the need for job creation, Aghi expressed confidence that U.S. companies can bring essential investments, technology, and governance structures to India. “With 1.5 million Indians entering the job market, it’s crucial to leverage U.S. resources,” he said.

Ultimately, Aghi believes that enhancing the India-U.S. relationship is a mutually beneficial endeavor, emphasizing the goal of attracting at least 50 leading companies to India to ensure their success in the market.