ASTA Statement on U.S.-India Trade Agreement Framework

The following statement is attributable to Laura Shumow, executive director of the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA):

“ASTA welcomes President Trump’s recent announcement of an interim framework for a U.S.-India trade deal. Finalizing this agreement will be another positive step toward implementing trade policies that reflect the realities of global supply chains, while keeping grocery costs down, stimulating American manufacturing and powering the U.S. economy.

“Specifically, the elimination of the 25% tariff tied to India’s of Russian oil purchases provides immediate relief for the U.S. spice industry, which relies significantly on spices imported from India. ASTA also supports the reduced reciprocal tariff rate and expanded categories eligible for further reductions or zero tariffs outlined in the joint statement.

“This new framework builds on the much-needed relief and practical targeted approach towards trade policy advanced in the Administration’s November 14 Executive Order exempting many spices from reciprocal tariffs globally. Kitchen staples such as black pepper, cumin, curry, fennel, ginger, and turmeric that come from India cannot be grown in the United States. That makes trade partners like India essential to ensuring nutritious, natural spices are affordable for American families.   

“We look forward to continuing to work with the Administration to learn more details about this trade deal and its future implementation. ASTA remains committed to working with the Trump Administration to protect consumer access to spices and their many health benefits.”