The United States has raised formal objections at the WTO against India’s integrated veterinary-health certificate requirement for dairy imports, describing it as an “unnecessary trade barrier.” The regulation—mandating that imported milk and milk products be certified free from antibiotics, pesticides, heavy metals, and sourced from animals not fed animal-based proteins—is argued to disproportionately disadvantage US exporters.
Washington has called on New Delhi to adopt scientifically justified, trade-compliant measures that protect both public health and fair market access. This development amplifies existing trade tensions, with the USTR previously citing these measures in its 2025 National Trade Estimate report alongside criticisms of India’s high tariffs on agricultural goods and stringent import rules. The US urges India to align its regulations with its WTO obligation of national treatment for imported dairy.
Industry Insight:
India’s stringent dairy import standards reflect deep-rooted cultural and health priorities, yet they may complicate trade dialogue with the US. Dairy exporters and importers should monitor potential policy adjustments amid ongoing WTO negotiations, as this could impact access and cost dynamics in the dairy trade corridor.
Source : Dairynews7x7 July 11th 2025