Trump’s return could redefine trade and tech rules, pushing Indian firms to prepare for new geopolitical challenges, says Misiek Piskorski

India is undergoing a digital transformation with initiatives such as Digital India and Startup India, along with advances in e-commerce, artificial intelligence and telemedicine, said an executive at the Swiss International Institute for Management and Development (IMD) in an interview with Business Today Dean of Education and Professor of Digital Strategy, Analytics and Innovation Misiek Piskorski discussed the challenges facing Indian businesses in digital adoption, inequality; digital maturity and potential policy changes that could result from a second Trump presidency.

He spoke within the framework of the Global Economic Partnership Forum of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) held in New Delhi.

Edited excerpts.

BT: What challenges do Indian businesses face in digital adoption and how are healthcare and manufacturing responding differently?

Deputy. As Indian businesses accelerate their move into the digital age, they face two major challenges: bridging wide domestic adoption gaps and preparing for global policy changes that could reshape their strategies industries with different levels, such as healthcare and manufacturing, and transformations in line with sustainability.On the other hand, they must remain geopolitically alert to change, especially if Donald Trump returns to the US presidency and reshapes international trade and technology rules.

India’s digital adoption is far from uniform, with healthcare offering promising examples. Telemedicine platforms, now common in large hospital networks like Apollo, have gained traction as the pandemic has pushed patients online. Artificial intelligence-based diagnostics and electronic health records are gaining ground, however, in manufacturing Auto giants like Mahindra and Mahindra are using IoT-based systems for predictive maintenance, but to a much lesser extent. workshops in places like Ludhiana or Tiruppur still rely on manual processes.Cost concerns, workforce skill gaps and outdated infrastructure are slowing adoption, leaving a patchwork of capabilities across the country.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) feel these pressures acutely. Often family-run and wary of big investments, they need tangible benefits before embracing change.However, success stories are emerging.Tiruppur’s garment exporters, for example, are using cloud-based inventory management and digital payments to flourish through the fintech ecosystem.Government-backed incubators and affordable digital tools are easing the transition, replacing cumbersome spreadsheets with mobile-first solutions As SMEs see how technology can streamline supply chains, improve customer access and increase efficiency, they gain the confidence to make further investments.

BT. How are AI and sustainability driving digital transformation in India, and how are businesses integrating both into their future operations?

Deputy. Among the technologies driving change, AI is no longer a futuristic luxury. E-commerce giants like Flipkart are deploying AI-powered chatbots for customer service are using machine learning to predict crop yields and help farmers plan better. Healthcare providers are analyzing patient data to predict outbreaks. while manufacturers rely on artificial intelligence to reduce downtime and optimize production.As these tools mature, industries from finance to logistics could see faster decision-making, reduced waste, and better user experiences.

Sustainability is another priority in a resource-sensitive market like India. Digital transformation offers tools to achieve environmental goals; AI reduces data center energy use, digital platforms minimize food spoilage by connecting farmers directly to consumers, and analytics help companies like Tata Power regulate energy consumption.

CEOs are increasingly realizing that digital transformation is not only about new technologies but also about long-term environmental sustainability.By putting sustainability at the heart of their strategies, Indian companies can future-proof their operations and differentiate themselves in an increasingly global market. valuing responsible growth.

BT. What should Indian CEOs focus on as they lead digital change?

Deputy. First, they must make transformation a people priority. Technology investments only pay off when employees understand and embrace them. Empowering employees, developing a culture of experimentation, and building cross-functional teams can make the difference between stagnation and successful innovation.

Collaboration is just as important. Large manufacturers can partner with nimble fintech startups for payment solutions, while healthcare providers team up for patient data insights. CEOs fostering networks across industries can accelerate their digital agendas : At the same time, it is important to stay abreast of regulatory changes, from domestic data protection laws to international standards can help companies avoid policy pitfalls and seize new opportunities.

Adaptability is key. The digital landscape is moving quickly, and the ability to shift product lines, target new customer segments, or create new partnerships is what separates leaders from laggards can raise the bar for everyone and help create a strong national digital ecosystem.

BT. How can Indian businesses prepare for policy changes with Trump as US president?

Deputy. India’s digital ambitions are not unfolding in isolation.The policies that emerged during the first Trump administration—tighter trade restrictions, tighter controls on foreign investment—have taught Indian businesses the importance of flexibility for US-based IT companies were to diversify markets while e-commerce companies struggled with data localization requirements.These shifts emphasized scenarios from planning, compliance strategies, and single markets the need to reduce dependency.

In Trump’s second presidency, Indian companies will again have to adapt. Software exporters may look more aggressively at Europe or Southeast Asia. Data-driven companies should prepare for potential cross-border data flow restrictions. : Indian companies can better prepare for new regulatory twists.

At the same time, Indian policymakers and industry associations can strengthen local digital ecosystems to protect against external shocks.