Apple growers in the Kotkhai region of Himachal Pradesh have raised concerns about the potential effects of recent free trade agreements (FTAs) signed by the Government of India with several countries. Farmers fear that increased imports could affect the domestic apple market and threaten their incomes.
Local growers are worried that cheaper apple imports may reduce demand for locally produced fruit, impacting their livelihoods. They are urging the government to consider protective measures to support the domestic apple industry.
**Why this matters**
Himachal Pradesh is a significant apple-producing region in India, and the fruit contributes substantially to the local economy. Changes in trade policies can influence market prices and farmers’ earnings, making it important to balance trade opportunities with the protection of domestic agricultural interests.
Source: NewsData