US-China Tariff Reductions Offer Limited Relief; Indian Exporters See Continued Opportunities Amid High Duties

While the recent US-China trade deal has lowered tariffs on Chinese products importing into the United States, duty rates are still significantly high—above 50 percent.

This situation, in a statement made on Thursday, opens a favorable window for Indian exporters to deepen their footprint in overseas markets, particularly as India continues to enhance its manufacturing base and global competitiveness.

The official stressed that tariff relaxation between the US and China would positively affect global trade flows and supply chain stability.

"We have faith in our competitiveness and we are enhancing that.Even the tariffs (on China) are very high, it is over 50 per cent and considering the position in which we stand today.I think there are opportunities for Indian exporters but not in terms of tariffs, but even in terms of enhancing its competitiveness.

"We are making efforts towards that, and we are enhancing our manufacturing capabilities," the official added.

Under the terms of the agreement, the US and China have agreed to lower major import tariffs. The US will reduce its Chinese goods duty from 145 percent to 30 percent, and China will lower its tariffs on some American imports from 125 percent to 10 percent.

In spite of these advances, certain trade analysts have expressed apprehension that the tariff reduction would erode the preferential advantage earlier accorded to Indian exporters.