Himachal Pradesh Kisan Congress Calls for Cut in Apple Import Duty

The Himachal Pradesh Kisan Congress, representing the state’s fruit growers, has formally highlighted the need to reduce the import duty on apples. The party argues that the existing duty makes imported apples cheaper, putting domestic producers at a disadvantage and threatening farmer incomes. It plans to submit a memorandum to both state and central ministries of commerce and agriculture, seeking a revision of the tariff schedule. Officials have not yet responded, but the demand comes as apple growers grapple with price pressures and growing competition from imports. Analysts note that while a duty cut could reduce government revenue, it may boost domestic sales and stabilize farmer earnings, a trade‑off the government must weigh.