Redefining Trade Relations: The Effect of Atmanirbhar Bharat on India’s Imports and Exports with China

Author:Arvind Kumar Yadav, Nitin Kumar

Abstract:
This research explores the impact of India's Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) policy on its trade relations with China, emphasising their role in global supply chains. It analyses changes in trade patterns, import dependency, export results, and sectoral shifts since the policy's 2020 implementation. By combining quantitative data with qualitative evaluations, the study reveals that the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative has introduced strategic measures for import substitution, supply chain diversification, and domestic industry support, focusing on enhancing local manufacturing, technological innovation, and entrepreneurship. The study highlights India's structural trade imbalances with China, driven by its significant demand for intermediate goods and capital equipment crucial for manufacturing. This dependence poses challenges to India's self-reliance and complicates trade relations in a globalised economy. The paper offers policy recommendations to enhance trade resilience and competitiveness against Chinese imports, including investing in infrastructure, promoting research and development, and forming strategic international partnerships to mitigate trade imbalances and support sustainable growth.

Keywords:Atmanirbhar Bharat, India–China Trade Relations, Bilateral Trade, Trade Balance, Trade Deficit and Self-Reliance Policy.

DOI:10.46333/ijtc/14/2/20

International Journal of Trade & Commerce (Vol: 14 Issue:2)