India Challenges US Quartz Tariffs at WTO, Seeks Trade Talks
What Happened
India has approached the World Trade Organization (WTO) seeking consultations with the United States over a new tariff-rate quota on quartz surface products. The US measure, effective from August 15, imposes duties of up to 50% on imports beyond specified quotas and is set to remain in place for four years. India says it has a "substantial interest" in the matter and has proposed virtual consultations.
Key Takeaways
The move underscores growing trade friction between India and the US even as both countries negotiate a broader trade agreement. The tariffs could impact Indian quartz exporters, for whom the US is a major market.