India To Export Farm Products To US At Zero Tariff, Says Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday said that several agricultural products from India will now be exported to the United States with zero tariffs, while American farm products will not receive similar concessions in the Indian market.

He underlined that India’s core interests in agriculture and dairy have been safeguarded in the agreement.

The minister noted that the US has significantly reduced tariffs on a wide range of Indian agricultural products. He said this move opens up new opportunities for farmers and exporters.

“These include spices, tea, coffee, coconut, coconut oil, betel nut, cashew, vegetable wax, avocado, banana, guava, mango, kiwi, papaya, pineapple, mushrooms, and some grains as well,” Union Minister Chouhan said.

Highlighting recent export performance, he said, “In 2024-25, India’s agricultural exports reached $4.45 billion. There has been an 88 per cent increase in spice exports.”

Now, following this trade deal, Indian spices will gain access to a new and large market in the US. He added that the agreement would further boost exports of spices and other agricultural products.

“No compromise has been made on the interests of Indian farmers, and no product that could harm farmers has been included in the agreement. All sensitive items have been kept outside the agreement,” the Minister reiterated.

Key Crops and Commodities Kept Out

Shivraj Singh Chouhan clarified that no tariff concessions have been extended on soybeans, corn, rice, wheat or sugar. He said coarse grains, poultry and dairy products have also been kept out. Other items such as bananas, strawberries, cherries, citrus fruits, pulses, oilseeds, ethanol and tobacco have likewise not been included.

“The greatest worry was that our major grains must remain secure, and I can proudly say that all of them have been kept completely secure. No doors have been opened for the US for major grains, major fruits, and dairy products,” he noted.

Chouhan added that a wide range of American agricultural and dairy products will not be allowed into the Indian market. These include liquid milk, butter, ghee, paneer and cheese. Other items such as grains, fruits, vegetables and spices are also excluded.

“The meaning is clear: our spices and our farmers are completely secure,” Chouhan said, adding that the agreement will create new opportunities for farmers, women, and youth.

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