This paper highlights the impact of Asian anthropogenic emission changes in SO₂ on sulfate loading in the Asian upper troposphere–lower stratosphere from a global chemistry–climate model and satellite remote sensing. Estimated seasonal mean direct radiative forcing at the top of the atmosphere induced by the increase in Indian SO₂ is −0.2–−1.5 W m² over India. Chinese SO₂ emission reduction leads to a positive radiative forcing of ~0.6–6 W m² over China. It will likely decrease Indian rainfall.