Fact Check: India has agreed to cut tariffs

Fact Check: India Has Agreed to Cut Tariffs

What We Know

Recent announcements confirm that India has indeed agreed to reduce tariffs on specific U.S. agricultural products. On September 8, 2023, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack stated that India would lower tariffs on imports of U.S. turkey, duck, cranberries, and blueberries, thereby creating new market opportunities for U.S. producers (source-2). This reduction follows earlier tariff adjustments, including the lifting of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. apples, chickpeas, lentils, almonds, and walnuts, which were announced earlier in the summer of 2023 (source-2).

Additionally, a broader framework for trade negotiations between the United States and India was established when Vice President Vance and Prime Minister Modi announced the Terms of Reference for a bilateral trade agreement on April 2, 2025. This agreement aims to address various trade barriers, including tariffs, and emphasizes the goal of increasing market access for U.S. goods (source-1).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim that India has agreed to cut tariffs is robust. The announcement by Secretary Vilsack is a direct statement from a high-ranking U.S. official, which lends credibility to the claim. The reduction in tariffs is not only a response to ongoing negotiations but also reflects a strategic move to strengthen trade relations between the two countries. The U.S. has long faced significant trade barriers with India, and these tariff reductions are seen as a step towards rectifying that imbalance (source-2).

Furthermore, the Terms of Reference for the bilateral trade agreement indicate a structured approach to addressing trade issues, including tariff reductions. This agreement is part of a larger initiative to enhance economic cooperation and reduce barriers to trade, which has been a consistent goal of U.S. trade policy under the current administration (source-1).

While there may be ongoing challenges related to non-tariff barriers and other trade restrictions, the specific claim regarding tariff reductions is well-supported by official statements and documented agreements.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that India has agreed to cut tariffs is substantiated by credible sources, including statements from U.S. officials and the establishment of a framework for a bilateral trade agreement. The reductions pertain specifically to key agricultural products, marking a significant development in U.S.-India trade relations.