A wave of nationalism is sweeping across India after the United States slapped steep 50% tariffs on Indian goods, prompting calls to boycott leading American brands such as Pepsi, McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Subway, and KFC. The situation has ignited a push for “swadeshi”—supporting locally made products—as business leaders, spiritual figures, and advocates of the “vocal for local” movement rally support.
Prominent voices are urging consumers to steer clear of U.S. brands in favor of Indian alternatives. Simultaneously, Indian leaders are reaffirming the nation’s commitment to self-reliance and promoting homegrown industries. While it’s too early to see a drop in sales, the sentiment behind the boycott is gaining momentum.
In a bold display of duality, Tesla inaugurated a new showroom in New Delhi amid the backlash—attended by Indian government and U.S. embassy officials—highlighting the complexity of economic ties even as nationalist sentiment rises.
