Musk-Modi Meeting: Tesla CEO may seek EV tariff reduction, Starlink license, and ISRO collaboration

Elon Musk is set to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Blair House in Washington, D.C., marking a crucial discussion between the billionaire entrepreneur and the Indian government. This meeting comes after Musk’s previously scheduled visit to India was cancelled in favour of a trip to China.

According to CNBC-TV18, Musk’s top agenda items may include seeking a reduction in tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs), securing an early license for Starlink’s operations in India, and expanding SpaceX’s collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

While Tesla has been exploring showroom locations across India and may introduce low-cost electric vehicles to the market later this year, an immediate commitment to local manufacturing is unlikely.

Previously, the Indian government had offered Tesla duty concessions of at least 15% to encourage domestic production, but negotiations stalled. However, with Musk now also serving as the head of the US Department of Government Efficiency, the upcoming talks are expected to carry broader geopolitical and economic significance.