Global CEOs are betting on India, saying Trump's 50% tariffs be damned!

As several countries face slowing growth, inflationary pressures and trade tensions, India's economic performance continues to draw the attention of international chief executives.

- BY S VENKAT NARAYAN

PwC’s 29th Annual Global CEO Survey finds India ranked second only to the US as a preferred destination for cross-border investment in 2026. 13% of surveyed CEOs are planning to invest here, on par with the UK and Germany and up markedly from its fifth position last year. This shift reflects confidence underpinned by strong growth fundamentals, an expanding consumer market and policy stability that outweigh external headwinds, including high 50% tariffs from the US.

The survey, conducted between 30 September and 10 November 2025, gathered responses from 4,454 chief executives across 95 countries and territories, including nearly 50 CEOs from India.

Among executives planning investments outside their home markets, 35% identified the US as their preferred destination, while 13% each selected India, the UK and Germany.

India's elevated standing is particularly notable given the global economic headwinds it faces, including the impact of 50% tariffs imposed by the US, which have added complexity to trade and investment decisions.

Yet, global CEOs continue to express confidence in India's long-term prospects. PwC attributes this optimism to three core factors: strong growth fundamentals, an expansive consumer base and relative policy stability.

These factors have helped sustain India's investment appeal even as the broader Global CEOs are increasingly eyeing India for investment, ranking it second only to the US for 2026.

One of the primary reasons global CEOs view India as a preferred investment destination lies in the strength and resilience of its growth fundamentals.

While many advanced and emerging economies are experiencing slower expansion due to tight financial conditions and weakening demand, India's growth trajectory continues to stand out.

This divergence is reinforced by the confidence expressed by Indian business leaders themselves.