New Delhi, Feb 7: India has secured zero-tariff access for numerous agricultural and industrial goods in the US market under a forthcoming interim trade agreement. The pact, expected to be finalized by mid-March, will allow Indian tea, coffee, and specific vegetables to be sold in America without reciprocal duties, alongside various automotive and aircraft parts.
While the deal opens doors for Indian exports, it also introduces a revised framework for American apple imports. A minimum import price of Rs 80 per kg has been mandated, coupled with a 25 percent duty. This structure effectively bars any US apples from being sold in India for less than Rs 100 per kg, a move intended to keep domestic varieties competitive.
“The agreement will not hurt the interests of farmers, MSMEs, handicrafts, and handlooms in any way,” Goyal said. He mentioned that the government has been careful to protect the domestic industry while facilitating international trade.
The Minister noted that while India has offered concessions in sectors such as medical devices and alcoholic beverages, it refused to budge on specific agricultural staples. He directly said that no duty concessions were granted to the US regarding sugar, millets, or dairy products.
Currently, India imports roughly six lakh tonnes of apples annually to meet domestic demand. Under the existing rules, imports priced below Rs 75 per kg are restricted by a 50 percent duty. The new regulations shift these figures but maintain a price floor that Goyal noted is sufficient to safeguard the interests of Indian orchardists.
