US Report Flags High Import Duties, Non-Tariff Barriers in India

• A US Trade Representative report highlights India's 'high' import duties on various goods, including agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, and alcoholic beverages.
• The report, released March 31, also points to non-tariff barriers such as import bans, licensing requirements, and mandatory Quality Control Orders (QCOs).
• India's WTO bound tariff rates on agricultural products are among the highest globally, averaging 113.1% and reaching up to 300%.
• The report notes India's 2026 budget reduced tariffs on some products, including life-saving medicines and EV components.
• Concerns were also raised regarding intellectual property, services sector limitations, and internet shutdowns affecting digital trade.