US Trade Representative Discusses Agricultural Negotiations with India
India 'a tough nut to crack' on agriculture, says US trade representative amid talks
Hindustan Times
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US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer described India as 'a tough nut to crack' in agricultural negotiations during a congressional hearing. As Indian negotiators meet in Washington, both sides aim to establish a mutually beneficial trade agreement, targeting $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.
- 01US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer highlighted challenges in negotiating agricultural access with India.
- 02The Indian trade delegation is in Washington for face-to-face talks, the first in six months.
- 03Discussions include exports of animal feed products like dried distillers’ grains (DDGs).
- 04India aims to protect its agricultural markets while seeking mutual agreements.
- 05Both countries target $500 billion in trade by 2030, more than double current figures.
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During a congressional hearing, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer remarked that India presents significant challenges in agricultural negotiations, referring to it as 'a tough nut to crack.' This statement came as Indian trade negotiators, led by chief negotiator Darpan Jain, were in Washington for three days of discussions, the first direct talks in six months. Congressman Randy Feenstra, representing Iowa's 4th congressional district, pressed Greer on accessing India's agricultural market, particularly for animal feed products such as dried distillers’ grains (DDGs). Greer acknowledged that while India has historically protected its agricultural sector, there are areas where mutual agreements could be reached. Notably, an interim trade agreement allows limited imports of DDGs from the US, which is only about 1% of India's annual consumption. India's foreign ministry confirmed that the talks are ongoing and constructive, aiming for a balanced trade agreement that considers both countries' priorities. The goal is to achieve a trade target of $500 billion by 2030, which would more than double the current bilateral trade of approximately $212 billion projected for 2024.
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The outcome of these negotiations could enhance market access for US agricultural products, potentially benefiting American farmers and exporters.
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