Sukhu lashes out at Centre over reduced duty on New Zealand apples, terms it injustice to Himachal
Himachal Pradesh is buzzing with discontent after the Centre slashed import duty on New Zealand apples from 50% to 25% under a Free Trade Agreement. What might look like a simple trade decision has sparked anger among the state government and Congress leaders, who say it’s a direct blow to local apple growers.
Why the Anger?
- CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called the move “an injustice to Himachal’s orchardists”, warning that cheaper foreign apples will undercut local produce.
- Congress spokesperson Kuldeep Rathore went further, calling the decision “anti-national and against apple producers”, accusing the Centre of promoting foreign imports while ignoring its own “vocal for local” slogan.
The Orchardists’ Struggle
- Himachal’s apple farmers already battle unpredictable weather and volatile markets.
- With sweeter, globally popular New Zealand apples entering Indian mandis at lower prices, local growers fear their hard work won’t fetch fair returns.
- Orchardist Sanjeev Chauhan summed it up: “This isn’t just trade—it’s about the survival of hill economies and thousands of families.”
The Bigger Picture
India imports apples from many countries—Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Italy, Poland, and more. In fact, Turkey alone accounts for nearly a quarter of all apple imports. Now, with New Zealand apples set to arrive cheaper, the competition is expected to intensify across Indian markets.
