As the Union Budget is all set to be presented on Saturday (February 1, 2025), apple growers in Himachal Pradesh have once again raised their long-standing demand for a 100% import duty on apples.
The industry, which has completed a century in the state, is a major pillar of the local economy. Himachal Pradesh produces between 2.5 to 4 crore apple boxes annually, generating business worth Rs 3,500 to Rs 4,500 crore.
Despite being one of the leading apple-producing states in India, Himachal’s growers face several challenges, including inadequate irrigation facilities, difficult terrain, high transportation costs and expensive per-hectare production.
In contrast, imported apples from countries like the US, China and New Zealand benefit from advanced irrigation techniques and lower production costs. As a result, foreign apples are cheaper in Indian markets, making it difficult for local growers to compete.
Imported apples pose tough competition
India imports apples from multiple countries, including China, the US and New Zealand, which offer high-quality produce with longer shelf life at competitive prices.
Turkish apples, imported via Afghanistan and Pakistan, enter India duty-free, further impacting local growers. With nearly four lakh families dependent on apple farming in Himachal, the demand for a higher import duty has become a critical issue.
Currently, the import duty on apples stands at 50%. Farmers argue that raising it to 100% would discourage foreign apple imports and ensure better prices for domestic produce.
Indian apple orchardists competing against 44 countries
The Himachal Pradesh Samyukt Kisan Manch convener, Harish Chauhan, emphasised that Indian apple farmers compete against 44 countries. “To protect our growers and ensure consumers get Indian apples at fair prices, the government must raise the import duty to 100% and set a minimum support price of ₹100 per kg,” he said.
Himachal’s apple growers have said the central government should not only increase the import duty but also enhance subsidies on equipment.
Ishan Kanwar, a progressive apple grower, said horticulture was turning into a loss-making venture. “If the government does not step in, apple growers will struggle to survive against foreign competition,” he said.
