India Weighs Tighter Visa Norms for Chinese Nationals

This comes against the backdrop of rising concerns over an influx of Chinese goods into India

- Dhirendra Kumar

India plans to tighten visa norms for Chinese nationals, particularly in commercial and technical work, and keep a close eye on their Indian hosts, two people aware of the matter said.

The hardening of stance comes against the backdrop of rising concerns over an influx of Chinese goods into India, following steep tariff hikes by the U.S.

New Delhi is wary of China redirecting U.S.-bound exports to other markets including India, which could undermine domestic industry and the government's self-reliance drive.

India's trade deficit with China increased to a record $99.2 billion in the financial year 2024-25, underlining not only a growing trade imbalance, but also a deeper structural dependence on Chinese supply chains.

Queries sent to the Prime Minister's Office, ministries of home, commerce, external affairs and the Chinese Embassy remained unanswered.