Tea, Spices & Citrus Fruits: See no-concession agri goods list as India protects its farmers in US trade deal

India-US Trade Deal: Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, described the recently announced India-US trade deal as 'historic and unprecedented', stating it will give new momentum and new heights to the Indian economy. Speaking at a press briefing at his residence in Bhopal, he emphasised that the agreement is not merely a trade pact, but also a symbol of India’s growing global stature.

“This deal will strengthen the Indian economy while giving it a new direction. It sends a clear message to the world: India’s policy commitments are firm; there is no compromise,” Chouhan said, noting that India continues to pursue a balanced and positive international strategy, emphasising constructive dialogue rather than bargaining politics.

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Diplomacy, development, and dignity

Chouhan described the trade deal as a model of diplomacy, development, and dignity. The deal, he said, prioritises India’s national interests, promotes self-reliance, and protects farmers’ dignity. Importantly, the concerns of Indian farmers have been fully addressed, while opening new opportunities for agricultural exports to global markets.

Zero tariff for certain Indian agricultural products

Several Indian agricultural products will enjoy zero tariffs in the US, while American products will not receive similar concessions in India, ensuring protection for Indian agriculture and dairy. Products benefiting from tariff reductions include spices, tea, coffee, coconut and coconut oil, cashew, betel nut, vegetable wax, avocado, banana, guava, mango, kiwi, papaya, pineapple, mushrooms, and certain grains.

“India’s agricultural exports reached USD 4.45 billion in 2024–25, with spice exports growing 88 per cent. This deal opens a new and larger market for Indian spices in the US,” Chouhan added.

Sensitive products excluded: No-concession agri goods list

To protect Indian farmers, certain sensitive agricultural products have been excluded from the deal. These products will not receive tariff concessions:

Major grains & staples

• Soybean
• Corn (Maize)
• Rice
• Wheat
• Sugar
• Coarse grains
• Millet

Fruits

• Banana
• Strawberry
• Cherry
• Citrus fruits (Oranges, Lemons)
• Grapes

Vegetables

• Green peas
• Potato
• Onion
• Cucumber
• Beans
• Mushrooms
• Mixed canned vegetables

Dairy products

• Liquid milk
• Powdered milk
• Cream
• Yogurt
• Buttermilk
• Butter
• Ghee
• Butter oil
• Paneer
• Cheese

Spices & seeds

• Black pepper
• Cloves
• Dry green chillies
• Cinnamon
• Coriander
• Cumin
• Asafoetida
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Carom seeds (Ajwain)
• Fenugreek
• Cassia
• Mustard
• Mustard seeds
• Husks
• Other powdered spices

“This ensures that Indian farmers and their produce are fully protected,” Chouhan emphasised.

Opportunities for farmers, women, and youth

The minister highlighted that the trade deal will create new opportunities for Indian farmers, women, and youth. Tariff reductions in textiles (around 18 per cent) will boost cotton farmers, while sectors like jewellery, auto components, engineering goods, and MSMEs will also see trade benefits.

Self-help groups, particularly women, are expected to gain, as many of their products will receive global recognition. Chouhan also mentioned that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has signed nine FTAs, including agreements with the US, UAE, Oman, New Zealand, and the UK, with more negotiations underway.

“These agreements will benefit the economy, farmers, workers, exporters, and manufacturers, contributing to India’s vision of a self-reliant and developed nation by 2047. Such trade deals are milestones in building a Viksit Bharat (Developed India),” Chouhan concluded, expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister for his leadership.