The United States has expressed its appreciation for India’s decision to lower tariffs on various American agricultural products. Tom Vilsack, the US Secretary of Agriculture, welcomed the development, stating that it would open up new market opportunities for American producers and exporters in New Delhi. This move followed the recent announcement by United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai, confirming that the two countries had agreed to resolve their last outstanding dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and reduce tariffs on specific US agricultural items, such as frozen turkey, frozen duck, fresh blueberries, cranberries, and related products.
This decision was made during the meeting between US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 8 in New Delhi, preceding the G20 Leaders’ Summit. A joint statement issued after the leaders’ meeting highlighted the resolution of the seventh and final outstanding World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute between India and the United States. Notably, the previous six WTO disputes were resolved during PM Narendra Modi’s State visit to the US in June.
Vilsack emphasized that the Biden-Harris Administration, through the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Trade Representative (USTR), has been committed to rebuilding trust and strengthening relationships with global trading partners, including India. They have worked diligently through the World Trade Organization and other channels to ensure that these partners fulfill their obligations, thereby granting US agriculture full and equitable access to vital export markets.
Congressman Rick Larsen also commended India’s decision to reduce tariffs on frozen blueberries, particularly as good news for Washington state. He expressed gratitude to Katherine Tai for her ongoing efforts to enable Washington blueberry farmers to compete on a level playing field with other blueberry-exporting nations and contribute to the global food supply.
US Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine said, “Today, we’re proud to report that USTR has finally come to an agreement with India to reduce these retaliatory tariffs. This move will help strengthen the strong partnership between our two nations while generating increased demand for Virginia poultry and supporting economic activity in the Valley.”
US Senator Amy Klobuchar said, “For too long, high tariffs have prevented American turkey farmers from exporting their products to India…I’m glad to see this agreement has been reached.”
National Turkey Federation lauded the efforts of the Indian and US governments to reduce the tariffs. In a statement, it said, “The National Turkey Federation applauds the efforts by the U.S. and Indian governments to significantly reduce the tariffs. This move creates an important new market for U.S. turkey producers and will give Indians more affordable access to a nutritious, delicious protein.”
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