India has eased strict visa rules for Chinese professionals in a major move to support industry and improve ties with Beijing. Officials said New Delhi has removed an entire layer of bureaucratic checks to speed up business visa approvals. They added that processing now takes less than four weeks, ending years of delays for Chinese technicians. The changes mark India’s strongest attempt yet to rebuild trust since border clashes in 2020.
The decision follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cautious effort to reset relations with China while balancing pressure from new US tariffs. India had previously expanded visa scrutiny for Chinese visitors after the Himalayan standoff. However, officials said the visa problems are now fully resolved. They confirmed that administrative vetting has been scrapped to support business needs and industrial growth.
China welcomed the move and called it a “positive action” that supports people-to-people exchanges. A foreign ministry spokesperson said Beijing is ready to continue talks with India to increase cooperation. The response reflects a recent softening in tensions, with both countries resuming direct flights earlier this year.
Industry groups have long warned that visa delays hurt India’s economy. The Observer Research Foundation estimated losses of $15 billion in four years for electronics makers who rely on Chinese machinery. Companies like Xiaomi struggled to bring in engineers, slowing local production. The solar sector also faced setbacks due to shortages of trained technicians.
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The policy shift comes after Modi’s first China visit in seven years, where he met President Xi Jinping. A high-level committee led by former cabinet secretary Rajiv Gauba later reviewed restrictions on China. The panel recommended easing rules that harmed India’s investment climate and discouraged foreign companies.
Industry leaders praised the government’s decision. The Indian Cellular and Electronics Association said it shows a collaborative approach and aligns with recommendations from the sector. They added that the timing is crucial as India expands manufacturing in electronics, components, and sub-assemblies.
India’s warming ties with China also follow a sharp shift in US policy. President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods and a separate penalty for buying Russian oil. This pushed New Delhi to rethink its strategy and balance relations with major powers. Officials said India is now cautiously relaxing some China-related restrictions to improve business sentiment and support economic growth.