AfA backs US–India trade pact, calls tariff cuts boost for supply chains
The association said lower duties will ease costs, support air cargo flows and improve planning certainty for forwarders and airlines.
Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump shaking hands while India and the US agreed to a trade deal. Credit: PTI Photo
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has welcomed the announcement of a trade deal between the United States and India, saying the reduction in tariffs is a positive step for global trade and supply chain stability.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Association said lower tariffs will support trade flows between two of the world’s largest economies, reduce costs for businesses and consumers, and create more predictable conditions for forwarders, shippers and airlines.
Brandon Fried, Executive Director of the Airforwarders Association, said any move that lowers tariffs and reduces friction is good news for trade and jobs and helps ease cost-of-living pressures.
The Association noted that the United States and India have deep and growing commercial ties, with air cargo playing a critical role in transporting high-value and time-sensitive goods between the two markets.
AfA also renewed its call for a more stable and predictable policy environment, warning that shifting tariffs have made it difficult for forwarders and their customers to plan, invest and price services with confidence.
Fried said that while forwarders can adapt to change, constant uncertainty benefits no one and consistent, transparent trade policy is essential for maintaining resilient supply chains.
The Association said it will continue to engage with policymakers to advocate trade policies that support growth, competitiveness and long-term planning.
Fried is scheduled to address these issues at the AirCargo Conference in Florida from February 15 to 17, where he will also present the results of exclusive polling on AfA members’ views on tariffs and their impact on businesses.