Gobbling Up A New Opportunity: American Turkey Heads To India

India-West News Desk

WASHINGTON, DC – The aroma of American turkey is set to tantalize taste buds across India as the first shipment of turkey products left the U.S. on November 12, marking a landmark moment in U.S.-India trade relations. This development follows India’s decision to reduce steep tariffs on American turkey products, paving the way for a flavorful exchange between the two nations.

U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, called the shipment a “historic milestone” in international trade, celebrating the expansion of American turkey into global markets. “This is a tremendous opportunity for Virginia’s poultry producers and a huge step forward for U.S.-India trade,” Warner said.

The trade breakthrough comes after years of dialogue and a September 2023 trade agreement that slashed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. turkey, making high-quality American poultry more accessible to India’s burgeoning protein market.

Thanksgiving Gift

Leslee Oden, CEO of the National Turkey Federation, emphasized the versatility and quality of American turkey, expressing excitement about introducing the protein to Indian consumers. “Our U.S. turkey producers are thrilled to share safe, nutritious, and flavorful options with a whole new audience,” Oden said.

The move is a win for Virginia, a leading turkey-producing state. Hobey Bauhan, president of the Virginia Poultry Federation, called it a boost for local farmers. “Virginia turkey farmers are proud to offer high-quality, lean protein to Indian consumers, and we are thankful for those who facilitated this opportunity.”

John King, president of Virginia Poultry Growers Cooperative, highlighted the impact on nearly 200 independent turkey growers. “This new market opportunity is exciting and represents a step forward for our cooperative growers,” he said.

Protein Meets Potential
India, with its rapidly growing demand for diverse protein sources, represents a lucrative market for U.S. turkey producers. The introduction of American turkey could redefine festive and everyday cooking in Indian kitchens, offering a lean, high-quality protein alternative.

This shipment not only strengthens U.S.-India trade ties but also symbolizes a shared commitment to expanding food diversity. For Indian food enthusiasts, American turkey could soon be the star of everything from traditional feasts to innovative recipes, blending the best of two culinary worlds.

With Thanksgiving around the corner, this trade milestone is a fitting celebration of partnerships, progress, and, of course, turkey.