Despite a recent pause in tariff relief for U.S. dairy under the Section 301 investigation framework, the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) reports no immediate impact on its primary export destinations. Key markets—including Mexico, Southeast Asia, and Latin America—remain stable, as they are not currently subjected to Section 301-related tariffs.
The U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR) office had initiated a four-year review of tariffs imposed in response to unfair trade practices by China and other nations. While the dairy industry had anticipated some easing, USDEC CEO Krysta Harden clarified that the markets that drive the bulk of U.S. dairy exports are already outside the scope of this tariff framework.
The broader implication is that geopolitical trade tensions and tariff dynamics, though influential, are not derailing current U.S. dairy momentum in core regions. In 2024, the U.S. exported nearly $8 billion worth of dairy products, with Mexico accounting for over 25% of that figure. The industry’s strategic focus on building deeper supply chain linkages, trade missions, and collaborative innovation with international partners is helping insulate it from short-term policy shifts.
Industry Insight: For Indian exporters and cooperatives aspiring to expand globally, the U.S. model of market diversification and strategic partnerships offers valuable lessons—especially in navigating trade policy volatility with resilience and long-term planning.
Source : Dairynews7x7 April 11th 2025 Dairy Reporter