The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a comprehensive investment strategy under ‘Invest UP’ targeting 371 Chinese companies amid mounting U.S. tariffs on Chinese exports, ranging from 25 to 100 percent. In contrast, India offers a much lower tariff structure—peaking at just 12 percent—making it an attractive alternative for companies seeking to relocate outside China. In response, the Yogi Adityanath-led government is positioning Uttar Pradesh as a prime destination for foreign direct investment across multiple sectors, including electronics, semiconductors, medical devices, toys, agriculture, and textiles.
Strategy to Attract Global Investors
Recognizing the opportunity presented by the shifting global trade landscape, the UP government has activated its ‘Invest UP’ initiative with a focused strategy to lure foreign investors. As part of this plan, 20 special officers have been deployed, each tasked with contacting 15 to 20 companies. These firms, many of which maintain extensive business ties in Germany, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, are being engaged under the ‘Make in India’ programme.
To ease their entry, the state is highlighting advancements in business infrastructure and connectivity. Initiatives include ensuring easy land availability, enabling plot viewing via geo-mapping, and organizing international roadshows to showcase Uttar Pradesh’s investment-friendly environment.
Pushing the China Plus One Strategy
The UP government is actively pursuing the ‘China Plus One’ strategy, aiming to reduce global companies’ overdependence on China. By targeting companies that are actively seeking alternative investment destinations, Uttar Pradesh is aiming to become their preferred manufacturing base.
Chief Minister Mr. Yogi Adityanath has set an ambitious target of transforming Uttar Pradesh into a one trillion dollar economy by 2029, with industrial development as a cornerstone of this goal.
Massive Investment Push Ahead of Groundbreaking Ceremony
The government is preparing for a grand ground breaking ceremony in November 2025 for projects valued at over Rs. 5 lakh crore. Industrial Development Minister Mr. Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’ reviewed preparations for the event and indicated that the investment tally could reach Rs. 10 lakh crore by then. To bolster this effort, international roadshows will be organized in countries such as China, Singapore, South Korea, UAE, Qatar, and Canada.
During an Invest UP meeting, Mr. Nandi also inaugurated the Human Resource Management System Portal aimed at streamlining the functioning of Udyam Mitras—key liaisons between investors and the state government.
Competitive Tariff Advantage
The government is promoting India’s lower tariff regime as a key incentive. While China imposes a 25–50% tariff on semiconductors, India’s rate stands at just 0–7.5%. Similarly, electronics attract 34% duty in China compared to India’s 0–7.5%, and medical devices see a 25% duty in China versus 0–4% in India. Solar energy products, EV batteries, and textiles are also part of this strategic tariff advantage.
Branding UP on the Global Stage
Through international roadshows, the Yogi government will actively brand both Uttar Pradesh and India as emerging global investment hubs. With supportive policies, infrastructure readiness, and lower tariffs, the state is positioning itself as a strong alternative for global companies realigning their manufacturing operations away from China.
