U.S. Trade Representative Calls India a Challenging Market Amid Ongoing Talks
WASHINGTON — U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told lawmakers that India remains one of the most difficult markets for American trade negotiators, citing longstanding barriers in agriculture and limited market access even as both countries continue discussions on a broader trade framework.
“India is a tough nut to crack,” Greer said during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing, noting that New Delhi has “protected their agricultural markets for a very long time.”
His comments came in response to questions about expanding U.S. agricultural exports, including distillers dried grains, soybean meal, and ethanol, which American producers view as key opportunities in India.
Greer confirmed that Indian trade negotiators were in Washington this week for discussions under a bilateral framework agreement. “The Indian trade negotiators are in town this week so we’ve been talking this week about these issues,” he said.
A delegation of senior Indian officials concluded their latest round of talks Wednesday with representatives from the U.S. Trade Representative’s office and other administration officials.
Despite the challenges, Greer pointed to potential areas of progress, particularly in sectors where India’s domestic sensitivities may be less pronounced. “There are things… where I think we can find mutual agreement,” he said, identifying distillers dried grains as one possible avenue.
India has long maintained high tariff and non-tariff barriers in agriculture, a politically sensitive sector tied to rural livelihoods. U.S. lawmakers have repeatedly raised concerns about restricted access for American farm products, calling it a key sticking point in bilateral trade relations.
The hearing also underscored broader U.S. concerns about global market access. Greer said the administration’s trade policy is focused on “reciprocity,” ensuring that countries benefiting from access to the U.S. market open their own markets in return.
Lawmakers noted India’s past tariff reductions on select products, including bourbon, as incremental progress, but pressed for more substantial structural reforms. Greer said negotiations are aimed at achieving those outcomes, though he cautioned that progress is likely to be gradual given India’s long-standing policy approach.
The United States is seeking expanded access for agricultural and industrial exports, while India is expected to push for concessions in areas such as services and improved access for its own goods.
Trade between the two countries has grown steadily over the past decade, making India a key U.S. economic and strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific, even as disputes over tariffs, digital trade, and agriculture continue to test the relationship. (Source: IANS)
