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Himachal Pradesh CM Pushes for Doubling Import Duty on Turkish Apples

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu urges Prime Minister Modi to raise tariffs to 100% and impose import restrictions to protect domestic apple growers.

CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu pays floral tribute to former PM Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary, in Shimla , on Wednesday. (HT Photo)

Overview

  • Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has formally written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting a doubling of import duties on Turkish apples from 50% to at least 100%.
  • The Himachal Pradesh government is also advocating for quantitative restrictions on apple imports to safeguard the livelihoods of local growers.
  • India imported 5.19 lakh metric tonnes of apples in 2024, with Turkey accounting for 23% of the total, raising concerns about the impact on domestic producers.
  • Himachal Pradesh's apple industry generates ₹4,500 crore annually and supports over 2.5 lakh families, making it a critical economic driver for the state.
  • The issue will be raised at a May 24 meeting, highlighting the growing urgency to address the surge in apple imports and its effects on local markets.