Global trade getting 'weaponised' through tariffs, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman

FM Nirmala Sitharaman addressing India Economic Conclave 2025: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said global trade is increasingly being “weaponised” through tariffs and other measures, making careful negotiation essential for India. Speaking at the India Economic Conclave 2025, she said trade is no longer free or fair, and while India is often criticised as inward-looking, it has used tariffs only to protect domestic industries, not as a weapon.