What pulses will see tariff cuts from the US to India?

Tariffs on certain pulses, specifically yellow peas and lentils, are expected to be reduced as part of the interim trade agreement between India and the US.

How long are tur and urad pulse imports allowed duty-free?

Imports of tur and urad varieties of pulses are permitted duty-free until March 31, 2026.

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India-US Interim Deal: Tariffs Slashed on Key Pulses

Q: Will India increase pulse imports from the US?

Yes, India is poised to potentially increase its imports of pulses, including yellow peas and lentils, from the United States due to tariff reductions agreed upon in an interim trade deal.

11 Feb

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Summary

India may boost pulse imports from the US due to duty cuts.
Tariffs on yellow peas and lentils from the US will be reduced.
This move follows years of US pressure for zero-duty access.

India-US Interim Deal: Tariffs Slashed on Key Pulses

India is set to potentially increase its imports of pulses, including yellow peas and lentils, from the United States. This anticipated shift follows tariff reductions on certain pulses agreed to in a recent interim trade deal between the two nations. For years, the US has been advocating for zero-duty access for its lentil and yellow pea exports to India.

The White House released a fact sheet confirming that India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on a variety of US industrial and agricultural products. Among these are dried distillers' grains, red sorghum, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, certain pulses, soybean oil, wine, and spirits. While the joint statement between India and the US did not specifically mention pulses, traders are awaiting clarity on the exact tariff reductions.

Currently, India imposes a 30% duty on yellow peas and a 10% duty on lentils. Imports of tur and urad varieties are permitted duty-free until March 31, 2026. The US has historically faced higher prices for its pulses compared to those from Canada, Russia, and Australia, making imports unremunerative for Indian traders. This new trade agreement, however, may alter that dynamic, potentially boosting US pulse exports to India, which accounted for only around $89 million in the last fiscal year.