Polo breeds, exotic livestock out of pact

India agreed to gradually halve import duties on certain livestock like bulls, cows, sheep and goats over 10 years

- Dhirendra Kumar

Horse lovers expecting cheap thoroughbreds for polo after India's free-trade pact with the UK, a country known for its equine breeds, will be disappointed.

The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) has kept polo horses, mules, and other exotic livestock out of the duty concession list under the pact, and the existing 33% import will remain, show documents.

By excluding these animals from the pact, India shielded military and sporting institutions and domestic breeders, as well as prevented the trade in wildlife and luxury animals that could face ethical scrutiny, said trade analysts.