As talks continue between the US and Indian representatives for renewed bilateral agreements on agriculture between both countries, senior officials from the United States Trade Representative are expected to visit India to continue negotiations for the bilateral Trade Policy Forum (TPF). There are talks between both parties to work out market access for agricultural produce like pomegranates and pomegranate arils from India. Some of the senior officials expected to visit New Delhi this week include Christopher Wilson, Assistant USTR for Central and South Asian Affairs, and Julie Callahan, Assistant USTR for Agricultural Affairs.
The last Indian-US TPF ministerial meeting in November 2021 saw Washington resume mango imports from India after a two-year embargo was put in place because of the pandemic.
According to a US embassy spokesperson, a high-level working USTR team is billed to land in India this week as talks progress on the US-India Trade Policy Forum. After the meeting this week, the next TPF will likely happen in November, with both countries exploring opportunities for increased market access for other identified agricultural produce. There would also be engagement to address US concerns about regulatory approvals for Distillers used for dried grains.
Indian exports to the US have continued to increase, with the country exporting nearly $21.67 billion between April and June this year. Similarly, imports within the same period accounted for $13.43 billion. Sources following the development said that the TPF working groups for trades, services, agriculture, investments, and intellectual properties would use the opportunity to negotiate on outstanding bilateral trade issues.
US- India renewed agricultural collaboration
The US considers India a strategic destination for agricultural produce and has been importing different agricultural products for several years. The Trade Policy Forum has created more opportunities for both countries to collaborate, especially in terms of increasing agricultural imports and exports. Much is expected to come out of the meeting this week as both parties develop a comprehensive action plan for future collaborations.
