Agra, April 6 -- Renowned globally for its marble mosaics and stone carvings, Agra's handicraft industry stakeholders are a worried lot after United States' decision to impose 26 per cent tariff on these products. With over 80 per cent of Agra's annual handicraft exports - valued at '1,500 crore - heading to the American market, the tariff issue has got alarm bells ringing among artisans, exporters and traders.

Tourists from the US, who form a significant chunk of foreign visitors to the world famous Taj Mahal, are also the biggest buyers of local handicrafts. These purchases are usually shipped directly to America from the emporiums in Agra, which number over 500. With the new tariff structure, there will be a 26 per cent difference bet...