ClipWire

Global Economic Impact of 'America First' and 'Make in India' Policies

Global Economic Impact of 'America First' and 'Make in India' Policies

Opinion | 8/30/2025

In a notable intersection of global economic initiatives, the implementation of President Trump’s ‘America First’ policy has raised concerns about its impact on India’s ‘Make in India’ campaign and the livelihoods of millions. The effect of these policies is exemplified in the story of Jinul Abedeen, who ventured from his family to New Delhi twenty years ago to master Zardozi, a complex threadwork art form, with aspirations of securing a sustainable livelihood.

The clash between Trump’s protectionist stance and India’s push for indigenous manufacturing under ‘Make in India’ underscores the complexities of contemporary global trade dynamics. Abedeen’s story encapsulates the human dimension of this economic crossroads, where personal aspirations intersect with broader geopolitical forces. The fate of artisans like Abedeen hangs in the balance as these policies shape the landscape of international trade.

Experts suggest that the tensions between ‘America First’ and ‘Make in India’ reflect broader challenges faced by developing economies seeking to carve out their space in the global market. The delicate dance of trade relations and protectionist measures has implications not just for individual livelihoods but also for the larger narrative of economic interdependence on a global scale.

While the Trump administration emphasizes prioritizing American workers and industries, critics argue that such policies risk stalling the growth of emerging economies like India. The multifaceted repercussions of these competing agendas highlight the intricate web of interests and consequences that define the modern economic landscape. As policymakers navigate these complexities, the stories of individuals like Abedeen serve as poignant reminders of the human stakes behind these high-stakes economic decisions.

In the face of these shifting currents, the future remains uncertain for individuals like Abedeen and the broader implications for ‘Make in India’. The evolving dynamics between ‘America First’ and the global economic order continue to shape the destinies of nations and individuals alike, underscoring the intricate interplay of policy, trade, and human ambition on the world stage.