During recent bilateral discussions, India and the United States reached an agreement to reduce trade barriers by removing retaliatory tariffs on crucial agricultural products. The U.S. Trade Representative's (USTR) office confirmed that India will eliminate tariffs on almonds, apples, chickpeas, lentils, and walnuts, paving the way for enhanced trade opportunities between the two nations.
US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack commended USTR's efforts in negotiations with India and recognized the positive impact on US producers. The elimination of these tariffs is deemed a significant achievement, further bolstering the $15 billion worth of market access for agricultural products, facilitated through collaborative endeavors between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and USTR.
The removal of these barriers presents a favorable environment for producers to expand sales of apples, chickpeas, lentils, almonds, and walnuts to one of the United States' top trading partners. This development underscores the competitiveness of high-quality US agri-food products, which have set export records in recent years.
In addition to tariff reductions, the talks also led to the resolution of six longstanding trade disputes. These efforts reflect the commitment of both countries to strengthening their trade relationship during India Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit.
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai stressed how important the elimination of these tariffs is for the development of trade cooperation between India and the US. The elimination of trade barriers will revitalize access to a crucial global market for U.S. agricultural producers and manufacturers, contributing to a strengthened trade partnership between the two nations.
Source : wisconsinagconnection