GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 4th Aug: Indian industrialist Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Enterprises, has sharply reacted to US President Donald Trump’s recent announcements on trade, calling the idea of Pakistan selling oil to India “unrealistic” and outlining a strategic “playbook” for India to navigate the new tariffs.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Goenka took a witty jab at the US President’s suggestion, comparing it to an improbable cricket scenario. “Saying Pakistan will sell oil to India is like saying a tailender will hit a triple century in a T20 match,” he wrote. “Technically possible. Realistically? More likely to happen in Lagaan than in real life.”
Goenka’s comments came after President Trump announced a 25% tariff on all Indian goods, a penalty on India for its continued purchase of Russian crude and military hardware, and a new trade deal with Pakistan to develop its oil reserves. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Who knows, maybe they’ll be selling Oil to India some day!”
The industrialist also shared a proactive strategy for India to deal with the tariffs. He suggested that key sectors like pharmaceuticals, steel, and IT exports would remain largely unaffected and advised looking eastward for new opportunities. “Time to woo Europe, ASEAN. Ride the China+1 shift,” he wrote, concluding that India’s “playbook” should be to “turn pressure into opportunity.”
Goenka’s posts resonated with social media users, who accused the US President of “bullying” and “playing a dirty corporate game.” Meanwhile, the Indian government has initiated consultations with exporters to assess the impact of the new tariffs and is preparing measures to support the industry.
Expert analysis indicates that Trump’s claims regarding Pakistan’s “massive oil reserves” are likely politically motivated, as official data shows Pakistan has very limited proven reserves and is a major net importer of crude oil.
