High Indian import duties could harm bilateral relations: US

NEW DELHI: Terming the Indian import duties as "too high", the US today asked India to lower tariffs as high rates "could harm" the bilateral trade and economic ties.

US Commerce Secretary John Bryson, who is here on a five-day official visit, asked India to ease restrictions on imports of products like medical equipment, fruits and capital goods.

"It would be a remiss rpt remiss, if I would not mention about the barriers which still exist in building our economic relationship. For example, there are many tariffs on American products which are still too high," he said at a Ficci event.

He further said if India does not accept US products and strategic investments "our progress together could slow down and in the long-term that could cause meaningful harm".

Meanwhile, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma in his meeting with Bryson raised concerns over high rate of visa rejections by America.

"There have been concerns over the high rate of visa rejections last year. There is a 28 per cent decline," Sharma told reporters after the meeting.

Both the ministers also discussed the issue of FDI In multi-brand retail. "They (the US) are aware of our decision (on the retail)," he added.

Further, Bryson said that India's high import duties on the US products are impacting American businesses.

Bryson, who is leading a 16-member business delegation, will also visit Jaipur and Mumbai.