A group of senior U.S. lawmakers has urged the Trump Administration to seek the removal of India’s 11% tariff on American cotton, calling the ongoing trade negotiations between Washington and New Delhi a pivotal opportunity for U.S. farmers.
House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington led a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, pressing for the permanent reduction or elimination of India’s trade barriers on U.S. cotton exports as part of a recently announced Interim Agreement.
“As you finalize the details of this Interim Agreement and any subsequent agreements with India, we urge you to negotiate a permanent reduction or elimination of India’s trade barriers to American cotton exports,” the lawmakers wrote in the February 25 letter, released Monday. “This is a critical moment for American cotton farmers.”
The lawmakers pointed to India’s 11% tariff on raw cotton imports as a significant obstacle for U.S. producers. They noted that the U.S. cotton industry exports about 85% of its production, while India ranks as the world’s fourth-largest textile exporter.
According to the letter, India has previously suspended import duties on cotton, but such measures were described as short-lived and unreliable in providing consistent market access for U.S. exporters.
“Increasing market access to one of the world’s largest economies would provide a much-needed market-driven boost to our cotton farmers who have suffered several years of historic losses resulting from inflation, low demand, and inclement weather,” the lawmakers said.
They argued that higher U.S. cotton exports would also benefit India by supporting its expanding textile industry with reliable, high-quality raw materials.
The appeal comes as the U.S. and India work through the framework of a newly announced Interim Agreement. Lawmakers described the joint statement outlining the deal as offering substantial opportunities for American agriculture.
Industry groups quickly endorsed the congressional push. American Cotton Shippers Association President and CEO Buddy Allen said the association strongly supports efforts to eliminate India’s tariff, calling the Indian market critical for U.S. cotton.
“ACSA appreciates USTR’s continued efforts to expand market access for our industry and looks forward to working together to strengthen the U.S. cotton industry at this critical time,” Allen said.
National Cotton Council President and CEO Gary Adams said expanded export opportunities are vital as producers face mounting financial pressures.
“The National Cotton Council welcomes this congressional effort to ensure that continued trade negotiations with India result in real and lasting gains for American cotton,” Adams said.
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