HELENA, Mont. - Things are relatively quiet here in the east wing of the Montana State Capitol, with Gov. Greg Gianforte overseas on a trade and diplomatic mission to India. The governor has touted it as an emerging market and says strengthening partnerships could benefit the state. However, the mission has been polarizing and has drawn criticism from some, including in the conservative base.
On Tuesday, the Montana Delegation met with technology companies, investors, manufacturers, and business leaders to promote Montana industries and attract new investment to the Treasure State.
“As our conversations continue in India, we are expanding opportunity for our leading industries beyond agriculture and making meaningful connections with successful entrepreneurs and business leaders ready to partner on the innovations of tomorrow,” Gianforte said. “We’re showing investors and businesses in India why the Treasure State should be part of their next big idea.”
The diplomatic mission has seen mixed reactions online, with some conservative voices sharply criticizing the trip and voicing their disapproval. Some say they see the trip as Montana jobs and opportunities being outsourced to foreign entities.
The Montana Freedom Caucus posted on social media: “Our globalist governor Greg Gianforte has shown his true colors by using Montana taxpayer funds to pay for a junket to India. His excuse? India buys ag products.”
The Governor’s Office responded to the online discourse, with Communications Director Kaitlin Timken stating: “In order to have Montana lead in a changing global economy, the governor is proud to pioneer the delegation of successful entrepreneurs, higher education leaders, and government officials to strengthen ties with the country on track to have the third largest economy in the world in this decade. Gov. Gianforte and the over 30 members of the delegation believe this mission presents a historic opportunity for the Treasure State to secure investment and jobs for Montanans and look forward to recounting the positive impact in the months to come.”
Some on social media have accused the backlash of being isolationist rhetoric.
India ranks 29th among Montana’s largest trade partners. India purchased over $14 million in Montana goods in 2025: mainly peas, lentils, chickpeas, and aircraft parts. That was a sharp drop from 2024, when Indian companies purchased over $64 million.
Gianforte has been making a case for more long-term relationships with India.
Montana is the leading producer of pulse crops in the United States. Education, tech and foreign investments are also a big point of discussion on the trip
On Monday, during a meeting held at the U.S. embassy, the governor and members of the delegation discussed how Montana was an ideal place for business expansion and investment from Indian companies in mining, agriculture, photonics, bioscience, and advanced manufacturing.
After the governor wraps up his trip to India, he’s headed to Shi Lanka. For last five years, the Montana National Guard has partnered with the country for disaster preparedness. The governor will also be exploring future markets for Ag producers.
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