In a historic step forward for US-India trade relations, the first shipment of American turkey products bound for India departed on Tuesday. This shipment marks a new chapter in international trade between the two nations and follows more than a year of negotiations aimed at reducing high tariffs on US turkey products.

US Senator Mark Warner from Virginia, co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, hailed the event as a "historic milestone in international trade" that not only expands the global reach of American turkey products but also provides new opportunities for US producers. "This shipment is a tremendous opportunity for Virginia's poultry producers and a huge step forward for US-India trade," Warner remarked. He added, "As co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, I look forward to the ongoing cooperation between our two nations and to seeing a wealth of new opportunities open up for Virginia's poultry producers."

The shipment is the result of a trade agreement between the two countries that facilitated a reduction in tariffs, enabling greater access for American turkey products to the Indian market. Last year, in anticipation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States, Warner and several of his colleagues called upon Ambassador Katherine Tai to work towards improved market access for US turkey and poultry products, which had previously faced steep tariffs in India.

The National Turkey Federation also celebrated the milestone, with CEO Leslee Oden highlighting the significance for American turkey producers and Indian consumers alike. “Our US turkey producers have long been committed to providing safe, nutritious, and versatile protein options worldwide, and we're excited to see Indian consumers experience the exceptional quality of American turkey," Oden said. He added that the shipment underscores the "strength of US-India trade relations and a reflection of our shared commitment to expanding food diversity and quality."

Industry leaders in Virginia shared their optimism about the opportunity. John King, president of Virginia Poultry Growers Cooperative, expressed enthusiasm for what the new market means for the cooperative’s nearly 200 independent turkey grower members. “We’re excited to be part of this new market opportunity,” King said. Similarly, Hobey Bauhan, president of the Virginia Poultry Federation, noted, “Virginia turkey farmers are pleased to offer high-quality, lean protein for export to India, and we are grateful for those who facilitated this opportunity.”

Under the terms of the trade agreement formalized in September 2023, India agreed to reduce or eliminate specific retaliatory tariffs on US turkey products, thereby granting American producers greater access to India’s fast-growing protein market. This agreement represents a significant breakthrough, particularly for Virginia’s poultry sector, and has been described by both countries as a commitment to fostering bilateral trade that meets consumer demands for diverse and high-quality food products.

This first shipment stands as a testament to the robust trade relations between the United States and India, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in food and agriculture while bringing American turkey products to a whole new consumer base in India.