Reciprocal Tariffs Reap Trouble for Indian Farmers

India’s simple average tariff on agricultural imports is 39%, much higher than America's 5%. After the pause, Indian agri-exporters will have to confront a reciprocal tariff of 26% in addition to the across-the-board 10% tariff. Ahead of the negotiations of the bilateral trade talks, India brought down the 150% tariff on bourbon whiskey to 100%. Yet, it seems the US showed little goodwill in response. Marine products, especially fish, are India’s primary agricultural exports to the United States. Although Indian exports in this category have fallen from a significant $2.7 billion in 2021–22 to $1.9 billion in 2023–24, fish and marine products are now the biggest product category at stake for India. The Central government now has to navigate the evolving global trade environment while ensuring the resilience and growth of its agricultural sector.