US‑India Trade Talks Highlight Need to Keep Indian Spice Exemptions

During ongoing negotiations on a broader US‑India trade agreement, the American spice sector is urging policymakers to retain the tariff waiver for Indian spices. ASTA President Donald Pratt stressed that the exemption is justified because the United States lacks sufficient domestic production of many key spices such as cumin, fennel, and chilies. He pointed out that the U.S. imported about $700 million worth of Indian spices last year, and that these ingredients are integral to the flavor profile of American cuisine. Pratt expressed confidence that the exemption will be preserved in the final deal and eventually codified as a permanent provision.