GoI admits reduced duty on American apple imports amidst Kashmir apple growers’ concerns
The Indian government has admitted that reducing import duties on American apples from 70% to 50% in September 2023 has led to a significant surge in apple imports, reaching Rs 17,902 lakhs from April to September 2024, surpassing the annual figure of Rs 17,716 lakhs in 2023-24.
This move was part of resolving World Trade Organisation (WTO) disputes, lifting the retaliatory 20% duty on US apples and aligning tariffs with the WTO-bound rate of 50%.
Kashmir’s apple growers, accounting for over 70% of India’s apple production, are struggling amidst fluctuating market dynamics, high production costs, and unstable prices. The government’s response to the questions to NC Parliament Member Rahullah Mehdi indicates no immediate plans to address these concerns, fuelling apprehensions among stakeholders.
The government clarified that it cannot impose tariffs exceeding the WTO-bound rate of 50% due to international trade obligations. This limitation restricts providing additional tariff protection to the domestic apple industry. [KNT]
