Top executives discuss trade tariffs and strict visa rules
US President Donald Trump is making a significant return to the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Switzerland after a six-year hiatus. His agenda for Donald Trump Davos 2026 includes a highly anticipated reception with some of India’s most influential business executives. This meeting comes at a critical juncture for global trade and diplomatic relations.
Prominent Indian leaders scheduled to attend the reception include Natarajan Chandrasekaran of Tata Sons, Sunil Bharti Mittal of Bharti Enterprises, and Anish Shah of the Mahindra Group. The technology sector will be well-represented by Infosys CEO Salil S. Parekh and Wipro CEO Srini Pallia. Sanjiv Bajaj of Bajaj Finserv and Hari S. Bhartia of Jubilant Bhartia Group are also on the guest list.
This gathering is not just a ceremonial handshake. It takes place against a backdrop of economic tension. Indian exporters have been grappling with a steep 50% tariff imposed by the Trump administration over the last four months. Business leaders are expected to look for signs of relief or a shift in policy during these interactions.
Furthermore, the IT sector is facing new challenges regarding workforce mobility. The US recently overhauled the H-1B visa program, replacing the traditional lottery with a merit-based system that favors higher salaries. An additional fee of $100,000 has also been introduced, causing concern among Indian tech firms that rely on this pathway for talent.
Before leaving for Switzerland, President Trump quipped that he was going to a place where he is "happily awaited." However, the atmosphere remains charged. Beyond trade issues, Trump faces diplomatic friction following recent controversies over edited maps regarding Greenland and tariff threats against European allies.
India has a massive footprint at the summit this year. Over 100 corporate leaders are in attendance, joining more than 3,000 global delegates. Other notable Indian attendees at the forum include Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani, Zerodha Co-founder Nikhil Kamath, and Paytm Founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma.
As the summit unfolds between January 19 and 23, all eyes will be on how these high-level discussions impact the future of India-US economic ties.
