At Washington AI Summit, Trump Criticizes Outsourcing and Pushes “America First”

In a recent campaign speech, Trump criticised US tech firms for their reliance on foreign talent and overseas factories. As per CNBCTV18, Trump said that US firms must stop hiring Indians for technical roles and cut back on building infrastructure in countries like China. Speaking at the AI Summit in Washington on Wednesday, July 23, Trump criticised the tech firms and urged them to prioritize America and its citizens in their operations.

The President directly warned Google and Microsoft, naming them in his remarks. He said, “Many of our largest tech companies have reaped the blessings of American freedom while building their factories in China, hiring workers in India and slashing profits in Ireland, you know that, all the while dismissing and even censoring their fellow citizens right here at home,”

Opposing the Global Mindset

During his speech, Trump said that American companies should invest in American talent and manufacturing. He argued that by outsourcing to countries like India and China, tech companies have “abandoned” the US worker. Trump opposed the global mindset that prioritizes international hiring and cheaper production over domestic jobs.

He emphasized that jobs in the tech sector should go to Americans first. This comes at a time when H-1B visa holders make up a significant portion of the workforce at large firms like Google, Amazon, and Meta.

Trump said, “America is the country that started the AI race — and as President of the United States, I’m here today to declare that America is going to win it. Winning the AI race will demand a new spirit of patriotism and national loyalty in Silicon Valley and long beyond Silicon Valley,” he added, while calling for the US tech firms to act in the favour of the country and “putting America first.”

A Tougher Line on China

Beyond hiring, Trump also addressed US firms’ operations in China. He accused companies of supporting a rival economy and weakening national security by building data centers, manufacturing hubs, and research labs overseas. “You’re building factories in China while closing them in Michigan. That’s going to stop,” Trump said.

By calling out specific tech giants, Trump slammed US tech firms for putting profit over patriotism. He argued that continuing to rely on Chinese manufacturing puts critical supply chains at risk, especially in areas like semiconductors and AI hardware.

What This Could Mean for the Tech Industry?

Tech companies have long relied on a global workforce and international partnerships to remain competitive. If Trump returns to office and follows through on these warnings, the industry could face major disruption. Policies restricting visas, reshoring supply chains, or penalizing overseas investment would force many companies to rethink their operations.

Trump stated, “We need US technology companies to be all in for America. We want you to put America first. You have to do that. That’s all we ask.”

Trump criticised US tech firms for relying on foreign workers and outsourcing operations. His speech signals a tough stance on both immigration and globalization, one that could reshape the future of the tech industry if he wins in 2024.