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Washington DC [USA], January 17:
Two US Republican senators have called on President Donald Trump to prioritize better market access for American pulse crop producers during ongoing trade negotiations with India.
Senators Seek Relief for US Pulse Farmers
In a letter sent on January 16, Senators Kevin Cramer and Steve Daines urged President Trump to include favourable pulse crop provisions in any future trade agreement with India.
Both senators represent major pulse-producing states. North Dakota and Montana lead US production of peas, lentils, and dried beans. Meanwhile, India remains the world’s largest consumer of pulse crops.
High Indian Tariffs a Major Concern
The senators highlighted long-standing concerns over India’s high agricultural tariffs. These tariffs increase the cost of US pulse exports and reduce their competitiveness in the Indian market.
According to the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), India applies an average tariff of 39% on agricultural products, compared with just 5% in the United States. Officials also pointed to technical and regulatory barriers that restrict US agricultural exports to India.
Trade Talks Underway Between US and India
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said the two countries are actively working to finalize a new trade deal. The Trump administration launched negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with India on February 13 last year.
In April, the USTR finalized the Terms of Reference for the BTA. This step laid the groundwork for multi-sector negotiations aimed at mutual economic benefits.
Benefits for Farmers and Consumers
Senators Cramer and Daines argued that lowering trade barriers would benefit both American farmers and Indian consumers. India’s large population drives strong demand for affordable, protein-rich pulses.
They also noted that similar outreach occurred during President Trump’s first term. At that time, US lawmakers personally delivered a letter to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the same issue.
Agriculture a Key Issue in Trade Deal
The appeal comes amid broader US–India trade discussions, where agriculture remains a critical focus. Pulse crop market access is expected to feature prominently as negotiations toward a comprehensive trade agreement continue.
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