Himachal Pradesh’s Horticulture, Revenue, and Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi has expressed concerns that the state’s apple industry could face significant challenges due to recent foreign trade agreements. The minister highlighted that the central government’s decision to reduce import duties on apples from countries such as the United States and European nations may adversely affect local apple growers.
Negi warned that the influx of cheaper imported apples could undermine the economic stability of Himachal Pradesh’s apple sector, which is a vital part of the state’s economy and livelihood for many farmers.
**Why this matters**
Himachal Pradesh is one of India’s leading apple-producing regions, and the apple industry plays a crucial role in the state’s economy. Reduced import duties may increase competition from foreign apples, potentially lowering prices and impacting the income of local farmers. This situation could have broader economic and social implications for the region’s agricultural community.
Source: NewsData