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 signed by the central government. The minister highlighted that the reduction in import duties on apples from countries such as the United States and those in Europe may adversely affect local apple growers.
Negi warned that these changes in trade policy might undermine the economic stability of the region, which heavily depends on apple cultivation and related activities.
**Why this matters**
Himachal Pradesh’s economy relies substantially on apple production, providing livelihoods for many farmers and contributing to the state’s revenue. Changes in import duties and increased competition from foreign apples could reduce demand for locally grown produce, potentially leading to economic difficulties for the agricultural community in the region.
Source: NewsData