Walsh lauds EU-India trade deal as new opportunity for sheepmeat
An Irish MEP has welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on a trade deal between the EU and India, saying it opens new potential opportunities for the sheep sector.
The EU-India Free Trade Agreement will remove a 33% tariff on sheepmeat exports from the EU to India, which Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh said will "unlock a major new market for Irish sheep farmers for the first time".
The proposed new 0% tariff would, the MEP said, significantly improve "the competitiveness of Irish produce in one the world's largest consumer markets".
"This agreement removes one of the biggest barriers facing Irish sheep farmers by eliminating a 33% tariff that has effectively locked us out of the Indian market," Walsh said.
"Until now, EU sheepmeat exports to India have been negligible. I hope this will change with the new deal. India is the world's most populous country, and with the tariffs removed, an important new export destination has been unlocked for Irish sheepmeat producers," the Midlands-North-West MEP added.
"Ireland is the fourth-largest net exporter of sheepmeat in the world and second-largest in Europe.
"This agreement strengthens our hands internationally, diversifies our export base, and supports farm families in rural communities," the MEP commented.
Walsh also said that the agreement is a "major win" for the Irish drink industry, with tariffs on spirits set to be cut from 150% to 40% if the trade agreement goes ahead.
"This will provide a real boost to Irish whiskey producers, supporting jobs and communities right across our island," she said.
"I welcome the exclusion of sensitive European agricultural sectors, including beef, from the deal.
"This shows that the EU can pursue ambitious trade deals while protecting Irish and European farmers. It is balanced and pragmatic agreement that expands our export opportunities without undermining Irish jobs."
Walsh said Ireland "most now move quickly to seize the opportunities this deal presents".
"The government should launch a targeted campaign to help Irish producers build distribution channels, navigate Indian regulatory and food safety standards, and promote the quality and reputation of Irish sheepmeat, whiskey and agri-food products in the Indian market," the MEP urged.
