Cross-border payment start-ups are happy about India-US trade deal
04 Feb 2026

India's cross-border payment start-ups are witnessing a wave of optimism from exporters, following the recent trade deal with the United States.

The agreement was announced on February 2, but details regarding tariffs and implementation are still awaited.

Founders of these start-ups believe that this deal could lead to increased export-linked payment volumes and improved investor sentiment.

Deal well-received by customers, expect growth across sectors
Market response

Anand Balaji, Co-founder of Xflow, a company serving IT and goods exporters as well as AI and SaaS companies, said the trade deal has been well-received by their customers.

He added that they expect growth across sectors with an increase in export activity.

Akash Sinha, CEO and co-founder of Cashfree Payments, also noted that this deal strengthens India's position in global commerce.

Deal opens new opportunities for Indian SMEs
Business expansion

Sinha emphasized that the trade deal with the US opens new opportunities for Indian SMEs, not just in terms of tariffs but also easier access, improved competitiveness, as well as new revenue streams in the US market.

Payment gateway companies that have received PA-CB licenses are expected to benefit from this deal as it will boost export businesses.

Positive sentiment amid steady activity in India's payments ecosystem
Ecosystem growth

The positive sentiment from the trade deal comes as India's payments ecosystem continues to witness steady activity.

Several fintech companies have raised capital over the past year to expand their international payment capabilities.

Meanwhile, regulators have taken steps to formalize oversight of payment companies.

India receives more than $120 billion in inward remittances every year and sends out around $25 billion.

Services exports overtaking goods exports
Export shift

Services exports, including IT, consulting, and digital services, have now overtaken goods exports. This shift has made cross-border collections a key focus area for policy makers.

Major payment gateway players are gearing up to take advantage of this trend.

Razorpay recently received its PA-CB license and said the approval strengthens its ability to serve businesses operating across borders.