In a surprising departure from his earlier hardline stance on immigration and foreign workforce policies, US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that America needs foreign talent — both through H-1B visa holders and international students — to maintain its industrial, technological, and educational leadership.
Trump Softens on H-1B Visas: “We Have to Bring in Talent”
During an interview with Fox News host Laura Ingraham, Trump defended the role of foreign workers in sustaining the country’s high-tech and manufacturing sectors. When asked if H-1B reform remained a key government priority, Trump said,
“I agree, but you also have to bring this talent.”
He argued that the United States lacks enough skilled professionals to handle complex roles in manufacturing, defense, and technology, adding,
“You can’t take people off the unemployment line and say, ‘I’m going to put you into a factory where we’re going to make missiles.’ It doesn’t work that way.”
Trump also referenced an ICE raid on Hyundai’s Georgia plant, where the deportation of skilled South Korean technicians reportedly halted battery manufacturing operations, highlighting the risks of losing foreign expertise.
While maintaining his support for higher wages for American workers, Trump conceded that importing specialized talent remains essential to preserve the US’s competitive edge.
In a relief for Indian professionals, Trump clarified that the controversial $100,000 H-1B visa fee introduced in September will not apply to existing visa holders.
Trump on Tariffs and Trade: Lower Duties on India Soon
Trump also announced that the US will reduce its 50% tariffs on Indian imports, one of the highest globally. He attributed the decision to India cutting down on Russian oil purchases, which was the original justification for the tariffs.
“We will bring the tariffs down at some point… they’ve stopped doing the Russian oil,” Trump said during a White House briefing.
Talks for a comprehensive India-US trade agreement are reportedly progressing, with Indian officials optimistic about a breakthrough.
Trump Reverses Stance on Foreign Students: “We Need Them”
In another major shift, Trump admitted that foreign students are vital to America’s higher education system and economy. He warned that restricting student inflows would devastate universities financially, stating,
“You don’t want to destroy our entire university and college system… We take in trillions of dollars from students. They pay more than double. I view it as a business.”
Trump said the US benefits from diverse international enrollment, particularly from China and India, and emphasized the need for a balanced approach — one that strengthens domestic talent while welcoming global expertise.
A Strategic Recalibration
Trump’s latest comments reflect a strategic recalibration of his “America First” policy — aligning it with economic realities. As the US pushes to rebuild manufacturing and defense capabilities, experts believe controlled immigration of skilled professionals and international student inflows will be crucial to sustaining growth and innovation.
