Srinagar: The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union on Tuesday urged the Government of India to take immediate measures to safeguard the domestic apple industry, citing concerns over the reduction of import duties on Washington apples.
In a letter addressed to the Union Agriculture Minister as per news agency JKNS reads, the growers’ body highlighted the adverse impact of imported apples on the fruit industry in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The union, which represents fruit growers across multiple districts, warned that the tariff cut set to take effect on April 2, 2025, under the “Reciprocal Tariffs” policy announced by former U.S. President Donald Trump, would further weaken local growers.
“The heavy influx of imported apples in Indian markets has already pushed small and marginal growers into financial distress. The further slashing of tariffs on Washington apples will shrink the market for locally grown produce and result in significant losses for domestic farmers,” the letter stated.
The fruit growers emphasized that the horticulture industry is the backbone of J&K’s economy, directly or indirectly supporting over seven lakh families. They also pointed out that growers in the valley have been struggling with losses for years due to various challenges, including political turmoil, the devastating 2014 floods, and erratic weather conditions that have damaged orchards.
The union urged the central government to reconsider tariff negotiations and instead impose a 100% duty on Washington apples to protect local growers and stabilize the fruit industry.
They appealed for immediate intervention to prevent further financial distress in the sector and ensure the sustainability of apple cultivation. (JKNS)
