In a momentous occasion, apple growers from Washington State have witnessed a significant uptick in their exports to India this year, marking a remarkable increase compared to previous years. Senator Maria Cantwell, accompanied by Prakash Gupta, the Consul General of the newly established India Consulate in Seattle, along with labor and port officials, convened in Seattle on Tuesday to commemorate this milestone.
Addressing reporters, Senator Cantwell expressed her enthusiasm for the burgeoning trade relations between the United States and India, hailing it as a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. She highlighted the pivotal role of apples in Washington's agricultural economy, emphasizing their global recognition and significance.
The surge in apple exports to India comes after a period of adversity, characterized by retaliatory tariffs imposed by India in response to trade policy decisions by the former Trump Administration. These tariffs, which amounted to a 20% increase in import duties on apples, had a substantial impact on Washington's apple growers, leading to a significant decline in exports.
However, with the recent lifting of retaliatory tariffs during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to the US, the apple export market from Washington state to India has witnessed a remarkable resurgence. The Washington State Apple Commission reported a substantial increase in shipments to India, with approximately 1,190,000 40 lb. boxes of apples exported this season, totaling an estimated USD 19.5 million in sales.
Senator Cantwell emphasized the importance of nurturing the Washington-India relationship across various sectors, including aviation, technology, healthcare, and agriculture. She underscored Prime Minister Modi's commitment to expanding trade with the United States, with a particular emphasis on strengthening ties with Washington state.
The opening of the new consulate in Seattle was hailed as a significant development, with Senator Cantwell highlighting the potential benefits for both Washington's apple industry and consumers in India. She expressed optimism about the future growth prospects of this burgeoning trade relationship, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and effort to ensure its sustainability.
In conclusion, the surge in apple exports to India represents a promising opportunity for Washington's apple growers, bolstering economic growth and fostering stronger bilateral ties between the United States and India.
