India Considers Reducing Tariffs on US Almonds and Cranberries to Strengthen Trade Ties

31 March 2025, New Delhi: India is in advanced discussions to reduce import tariffs on key US agricultural products, including almonds and cranberries, as part of broader efforts to enhance bilateral trade with the United States. The negotiations, led by Brendan Lynch, the Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, focus on improving market access and easing trade barriers.

The Indian government has proposed lowering duties on several US imports, such as almonds, walnuts, cranberries, pistachios, and lentils. This move aligns with India’s strategy to prevent potential trade restrictions and advance a bilateral trade agreement, which is expected to be finalized by the end of the week.

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed that discussions are progressing positively, with both nations working towards a balanced agreement. A senior government official stated that India is carefully calibrating its proposals in response to US demands, particularly in the agricultural sector. However, India remains cautious about tariff reductions on sensitive commodities like dairy products, rice, wheat, and maize.

Currently, import duties on cranberries, almonds, and walnuts range between 30% and 100%, while lentils are subject to a 10% tariff. In return for tariff concessions, India is seeking greater access to the US market for its agricultural exports, including pomegranates, grapes, and rice.

The preliminary framework for a broader trade agreement is anticipated by autumn 2025. In 2024, US agricultural exports to India amounted to nearly $2 billion, whereas India’s agricultural shipments to the US reached approximately $5.5 billion. These negotiations underscore the growing economic partnership between the two nations and the potential for deeper trade cooperation.

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