WASHINGTON – The National Turkey Federation (NTF) and the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) touted a decision by India to eliminate a retaliatory tariff on US frozen whole turkeys and frozen turkey parts.

The trade agreement reduced basic tariffs on those products from 30% to 5%.

“The National Turkey Federation applauds the efforts by the US and Indian governments to significantly reduce the tariffs,” said Joel Brandenberger, president and chief executive officer of National Turkey Federation. “This move creates an important new market for US turkey producers and will give Indians more affordable access to a nutritious, delicious protein.

“NTF congratulates the Office of the US Trade Representative and the leadership of USDA on this accomplishment, and we thank Senators Mark R. Warner and Thom Tillis for spearheading congressional efforts to ensure US turkey growers are able to effectively compete in this fast-growing marketplace.”

Before the new agreement, NTF and USAPEEC said the tariffs overpriced the product for the Indian market and prevented US exporters from participating.

The announcement will allow US turkey growers the ability to compete in the fast-expanding market while providing Indian consumers with a high-quality and affordable source of protein.

The agreement will also reduce to 5% from 30% the duty on duck imports from the United States.

“The USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) applauds the decision to lower the tariff on imports of US frozen turkey parts, whole turkeys, and duck by India,” said Greg Tyler, president and CEO of USAPEEC. “This is a significant, positive action. We very much appreciate our government’s ongoing efforts to increase access for US poultry and egg products in India. The lowering of tariffs on turkey meat and for some duck exports is a great success.”