Washington, April 18: The United States has identified tariff barriers in India as a significant issue in ongoing trade negotiations. U.S. Trade Representative Jamison Greer informed lawmakers that Washington is emphasizing better market access for American exports.
During a congressional hearing on the budget for fiscal year 2027, Greer stated that the U.S. has been negotiating with India for the past year to establish a “reciprocal trade framework.” The agricultural sector has emerged as the primary point of contention.
“We have been working with the Indians for the past year. I met with their ambassador this week to advance this agreement,” he said. Greer also mentioned that an Indian delegation is set to visit the U.S. next week.
He highlighted that tariff barriers remain a significant challenge, particularly in areas where U.S. exporters have lost ground. “We have discussed apples multiple times. I personally raised this issue with my counterpart,” indicating that it has been addressed at high levels.
U.S. lawmakers noted that India imposes a 50 percent tariff on apples, which serves as a major example. This has led to a drastic reduction in the market share of American apples in India. In 2018, the U.S. accounted for 53 percent of apple imports in India, which has now plummeted to about 8.5 percent. Meanwhile, countries like Iran, Turkey, and Afghanistan have increased their shares.
Greer expressed that the U.S. seeks a balanced agreement that provides American exporters equal opportunities in markets where India still relies on imports.
“If India imports apples, we want them to buy apples from the U.S.,” he stated, while clarifying that the U.S. does not intend to harm Indian farmers.
These comments come as the Trump administration attempts to leverage tariffs to negotiate trade agreements in its favor and reshape trade relations.
Greer informed lawmakers that the U.S. has already reached agreements with several countries and is now focused on enhancing export opportunities for American farmers and industries.
Lawmakers warned that if tariffs are not reduced, American exporters will fall further behind those benefiting from better trade agreements with India.
Greer emphasized that discussions are ongoing and no final agreement has been reached yet. “Nothing is settled in these talks until everything is finalized,” he concluded.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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