Citrus Australia welcomes reduced tariffs with India under Free Trade Agreement negotiations
2 April 2022
Citrus Australia welcomes the news that India and Australia have reached an interim outcome in free trade agreement negotiations, which will see tariffs on Australian citrus exports reduced by 50%.
The interim agreement, which when enacted will allow the entry of 13,700 tonnes of Australian citrus into India at a reduced tariff of 15 percent, comes as a result of the peak industry body’s advocacy and coincides with a renewed effort by Citrus Australia to increase exports to the sub-continent.
The Australian citrus industry is one of the largest exporters of fresh fruit in Australia. As much as $540 million of fresh Australian citrus is exported each year.
Citrus Australia believes the sub-continent, including India, is a potentially significant growth area for Australian citrus exports.
Negotiations for the Australia-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement have been underway since 2011. Reduction of the import tariff for citrus is seen as pivotal to increasing exports to India.
“We commend the Australian government for their efforts in securing tariff concessions for Australian citrus exports as part of the historic deal,” Citrus Australia CEO Nathan Hancock said.
“The Australian citrus industry is appreciative of the efforts by Trade Minister Dan Tehan, Agriculture Minister David Littleproud and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for their continued work on this important agreement.
“Reducing tariffs from 30 percent to 15 percent will prove beneficial for both Australian exporters and Indian importers.
“We look forward to developing long term relations with business leaders and government in India.
“It’s a country with such a rich culture and a vibrancy and we see great opportunities for mutual benefit for traders in both countries and the end consumer.”
Citrus Australia is hopeful that the implementation date of the new agreement could be as soon as July, which would benefit the 2022 season.
Under the unique terms of this agreement, discussions between the two countries will continue later this year. Citrus Australia will continue to advocate for improved import conditions that benefit for Australian citrus growers and Indian consumers.
Citrus Australia will provide more detail on the agreement with growers and industry as it comes to hand.
For further information, contact Stephen Cooke, Industry Engagement Manager, Citrus Australia, on 0427 124 437 or stephen.cooke@citrusaustralia.com.au
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