Himachal Pradesh Apple Farmers Celebrate Minimum Import Price Increase

Positive Developments for Apple Farmers

SHIMLA: Apple cultivators in Himachal Pradesh have reason to celebrate as the Central Government has reportedly raised the minimum import price (MIP) for imported apples from Rs 50 to Rs 80 per kilogram.

This adjustment aims to safeguard local apple producers from the influx of cheaper foreign varieties, particularly from nations like Iran and Turkey, which have negatively affected domestic markets.

Support for Local Producers Amidst Foreign Competition

The recent decision is a significant relief for apple orchard owners in Himachal Pradesh, who have long advocated for stricter regulations on low-cost apple imports. With the new MIP set at Rs 80 per kg, imported apples are anticipated to be sold at a minimum price of Rs 130 per kg in India after accounting for import duties.

This change is expected to reduce the price disparity between domestic and imported apples, providing a fairer competitive landscape for local farmers.

Apple Growers Welcome the Decision

Organizations representing apple growers, such as the Progressive Growers Association (PGA), have expressed their approval of the decision. PGA members Chaman Tanta and Sunil Chauhan noted that the association has been advocating for an increase in MIP for an extended period and view this as a positive development. However, they continue to press the government to further increase the MIP to Rs 100 per kg for enhanced protection.

A Historic Move for Farmers

Chetan Singh Bragta, a spokesperson for the BJP in Himachal Pradesh, whose father was a former state Horticulture Minister, described the decision as 'historic and bold,' attributing it to the farmer-friendly policies of the Narendra Modi administration.

During a press conference in Shimla, Bragta highlighted that this initiative would help control the unregulated influx of foreign apples and lead to better pricing for Indian apple growers.

Concerns About Import Loopholes

Despite the positive reception, there are lingering concerns regarding the unchecked import of apples through South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) routes, especially with Iranian apples entering India duty-free via Afghanistan and Pakistan. Farmers have called on the government to address these loopholes to ensure the MIP regulations are effectively enforced.

Harish Chauhan, convener of the Sanyukt Kisan Manch, cautioned that without stringent enforcement, the policy may fail to achieve its intended outcomes, as previous MIP regulations were poorly implemented. He also sought clarification on the 'Trump tariff' set to be implemented from July 9, amid indications that the government might lower import duties on apples, which could undermine the advantages of the MIP increase.