WASHINGTON – Members of the Virginia turkey industry confirmed on Nov. 13 that the first shipment of American turkey products were shipped to India.
The shipment contained turkeys the Virginia Poultry Growers Cooperative raised and left from the Port of Virginia. The shipment began before the holiday season, as India seeks whole birds in restaurants and hotels.
The trade agreement was first announced in September 2023 when the Republic of India eliminated and reduced retaliatory tariffs on US turkey products.
Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) announced the trade updates. He also serves as the co-chair of the Senate India Caucus.
“This shipment is a tremendous opportunity for Virginia’s poultry producers and a huge step forward for US-India trade,” Warner said. “As co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, I look forward to the ongoing cooperation between our two nations and to seeing a wealth of new opportunities open up for Virginia’s poultry producers.”
Officials in the turkey business also showed their support for the move and how it helped them expand trading openings.
“Our US turkey producers have long been committed to providing safe, nutritious, and versatile protein options worldwide, and we’re excited to see Indian consumers experience the exceptional quality of American turkey,” said Leslee Oden, chief executive officer of the National Turkey Federation. “This first shipment is a testament to the strength of US-India trade relations and a reflection of our shared commitment to expanding food diversity and quality.”
John King, president of the Virginia Poultry Growers Cooperative, stated his excitement for the market opportunity.
“We thank Senator Warner and the many dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly to make this a reality,” King said. “Their efforts will directly benefit our nearly 200 independent grower owners.”
Warner’s office noted that Virginia was America’s sixth largest turkey source after producing 14.5 million birds in 2021. Turkey’s production delivers a direct economic impact of $5.8 billion and contributes $13.6 billion in economic activity in Virginia.
“Virginia turkey farmers are pleased to offer high quality, lean protein for export to India, and we are grateful for those who facilitated this opportunity,” said Hobey Bauhan, president of the Virginia Poultry Federation.
