IPC Optimistic on US Tariff Relief Amid Strong Pepper Demand

October 31 . The International Pepper Community (IPC) remains hopeful for tariff exemptions as the US demand for pepper continues to be robust. Marina Novira Anggraini, Executive Director of IPC, highlighted that the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA), along with multiple embassies and the US Trade Representative, is actively engaged in lobbying for tariff relief for spices including black pepper. The existing temporary tariffs stand at 50% for India, 20% for Vietnam, and around 19-20% for other major pepper-producing countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. These tariffs are subject to bilateral negotiations, and black pepper is specifically eligible for exemption under the Executive Order's "unavailable natural resources" category. The hopes are anchored on ongoing dialogues that aim to establish a constructive path towards tariff exemption to sustain the strong US market demand for pepper. This aligns with the current dynamic in the US market where black pepper imports remain significant, despite high tariffs impacting trade. Advocacy efforts by ASTA and related stakeholders emphasize reducing these tariffs to levels closer to 20%, or ideally zero for agricultural products not grown domestically, which includes black pepper. The US market continues to rely heavily on pepper imports from India, Vietnam, and others, reflecting strong consumption trends and market potential. This rephrased news headline and summary maintain the core details and provide clear, updated context on the tariff negotiations and strong pepper demand in the US market.