US, Mar 03 : A group of senior US lawmakers has urged the Trump Administration to advocate for the removal of India’s 11 per cent tariff on American cotton, describing the move as a “critical moment” for US agriculture during ongoing trade negotiations. The appeal was led by House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington in a letter to US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
The letter emphasizes that India’s current tariff on raw cotton acts as a significant barrier for American exporters. Lawmakers noted that 85 per cent of US cotton is exported, and India, as the fourth largest global textile exporter, represents a crucial market. Temporary suspensions of import duties in the past were described as “short-lived” and unreliable.
“Increasing market access to one of the world’s largest economies would provide a market-driven boost to our cotton farmers, who have faced historic losses from inflation, low demand, and adverse weather,” the letter stated. The lawmakers also highlighted that expanded US cotton exports would benefit India’s textile industry by providing high-quality, reliable inputs.
Industry groups have strongly backed the congressional push. Buddy Allen, President and CEO of the American Cotton Shippers Association, said the appeal strengthens efforts to improve access to the Indian market. Gary Adams, President and CEO of the National Cotton Council, emphasized that expanded exports are vital for farmers facing financial pressures.
The congressional letter comes as Washington and New Delhi work toward finalizing a framework for a recently announced Interim Agreement, which lawmakers called a “monumental opportunity for American agriculture.”
Signatories of the letter include Gregory F. Murphy, Rick Crawford, Austin Scott, Pat Harrigan, Michael McCaul, Michael Cloud, Earl L. “Buddy” Carter, Julia Letlow, Ronny Jackson, Vince Fong, and August Pfluger.