India-US Trade Deal Talks Impact

As India and the US edge closer to finalizing a trade deal before President Donald Trump’s tariff deadline, uncertainty has led to delays in the clearance of American dry fruits at Indian customs.

According to reports, importers are holding back on clearing shipments of walnuts, almonds, and other nuts from the US, anticipating a significant reduction in import duties as part of the upcoming trade agreement.

Why the Delay?

India currently imposes a 100% duty on US walnuts and specific duties on almonds. Importers are opting to pay penalties for delayed clearance rather than risk financial losses should duties drop post-clearance.

"Many importers are postponing filing the bill of entry by a few days and opting to pay the penalty for delayed clearance, which is much smaller than the losses they may face in case the duties are reduced," said Ravindra Mehta of the Nuts and Dry Fruits Council of India.

Supply Chain Disruptions

The dry fruit market is already under strain due to halted Afghan imports following geopolitical tensions. A delay in US imports could exacerbate supply issues.