India is on the brink of a major policy change, with government sources indicating plans to remove import duties on US ethane and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), as well as liquefied natural gas (LNG). The decision is intended to supercharge US energy imports, render American fuels more cost-competitive, and assist in bridging India's $45.4 billion trade surplus with Washington.
Key Highlights:
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The plan would scrap the existing 2.5% basic customs duty and 0.25% social welfare tax on US-origin ethane, LPG, and LNG, replicating India's zero-tax deals with the UAE and Australia.
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The tax reduction would enhance India's energy security, assist growing indigenous demand, and deepen strategic ties with the US—now India's second-biggest LNG supplier.
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While Prime Minister Modi was on his recent visit to the US, India committed to raising US energy purchases by $10 billion to $25 billion in the near future, and both countries set sights on $500 billion of two-way trade by 2030.
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The action may redirect US energy shipments from China, where a new 15% import duty on US LNG has rendered India more appealing.
Indian oil majors such as GAIL, Indian Oil, and BPCL are already in negotiations for greater long-term US supply agreements, making India a prime mover in the new world energy order.
Sources: Economic Times, Reuters, ThePrint