Should the Import Duty on Turkish Apples Be Doubled?
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Synopsis
In a bold move to protect local farmers, Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister urges the Prime Minister to double the import duty on Turkish apples. This decision could change the landscape for apple farming in India and safeguard the livelihoods of many families dependent on this vital crop.
Key Takeaways
- Himachal Pradesh's apple industry is vital for the state's economy.
- Current import duty on Turkish apples stands at 50 percent.
- CM Sukhu advocates for doubling this duty to protect local farmers.
- Imported apples from Turkey pose a threat to local competition.
- Apple farming supports over 2.50 lakh families in the region.
Shimla, May 21 (NationPress) Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase the import duty on Turkish apples from the current 50 percent to 100 percent in order to deter imports from Turkey and protect the interests of the state's fruit farmers. He also suggested that quantitative restrictions be placed on imported apples, as reported by the government on Wednesday.
In his correspondence with the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister highlighted that Himachal Pradesh is renowned as the 'apple bowl' of India, celebrated for its exquisite varieties of the fruit. The apple is the state's principal cash crop, generating approximately Rs 4,500 crore annually.
According to the CM, the apple crop creates around 10 lakh mandays of work, directly and indirectly supporting over 2.50 lakh families.
Sukhu pointed out that apples are currently imported from nearly 31 countries, with 5.19 lakh metric tons imported in 2024, marking a staggering increase of 500 times from the 1,100 metric tons imported in 1998.
The Chief Minister noted that Turkey's share of imports surged in 2020, peaking at 1.29 lakh metric tons in 2023.
He added that a significant 1.17 lakh metric tons was imported from Turkey in 2024, accounting for 23 percent of total apple imports.
According to him, the influx of Turkish apples has been overwhelming Indian markets in recent years, posing a substantial threat to local apple producers.
This surge has not only diminished the competitiveness of domestic apple farmers but also jeopardized the livelihoods of small and marginal apple growers in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
CM Sukhu expressed his intent to personally discuss the increase in import duty on Turkish apples with the Prime Minister.
Point of View
The appeal from Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister stands as a significant stance in support of local farmers. While trade policies must be balanced, prioritizing domestic agriculture is crucial for maintaining the livelihoods of many families. The government's response to this request will be closely observed by stakeholders across the nation.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Chief Minister seeking to double the import duty on Turkish apples?
The Chief Minister aims to protect local farmers from the influx of imported apples, which threatens their livelihoods.
What is the current import duty on apples from Turkey?
The current import duty on apples from Turkey is 50 percent.
How much revenue does apple farming generate for Himachal Pradesh?
Apple farming generates approximately Rs 4,500 crore annually for Himachal Pradesh.
What impact have imported apples from Turkey had on local farmers?
Imported apples from Turkey have undermined the competitiveness of local producers, jeopardizing their livelihoods.
How has the volume of apple imports changed over the years?
Apple imports have increased significantly, from 1,100 metric tons in 1998 to 5.19 lakh metric tons in 2024.
