Congress Slams 'China’s B-Team' Label for ASEAN Nations as Insulting and Baseless

The Congress on Friday criticized Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal for calling the India-ASEAN trade agreement “silly” and labeling ASEAN nations the “B team of China.” Goyal made the remarks at the India Global Forum in London, suggesting the agreement allowed indirect Chinese goods into India. Former Commerce Minister Anand Sharma called the comments irresponsible and insulting, noting India’s over 30-year strategic and mutually beneficial relationship with ASEAN under the Look East policy. He urged Goyal to focus on strengthening trade ties with partners rather than demeaning them, especially while pursuing less favorable trade deals with countries like the U.S.