BJP counters duty cut fears, says MIP hike protects Indian Apple farmers

Shimla, July 4,

As concerns grow among apple growers over a potential reduction in import duty during ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, the BJP has stepped in to defend, claiming it remains protective of domestic producers. The party argues that a rise in the Minimum Import Price (MIP) for apples has, in effect, increased the import duty burden — discouraging the influx of cheaper foreign apples.

Chetan Bragta, BJP spokesperson and son of former Horticulture Minister Narender Bragta, claimed that the average MIP for imported apples has been revised from Rs50 to Rs 80 per kilogram. “This increase translates into a higher landing cost for importers, effectively pushing alongwith the overall import duty to around Rs 120 per kg,” he said, citing correspondence from Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

Also read:Himachal CM Sukhu to meet PM Modi over Apple Import duty; Seeks ban on Turkish apples

Bragta added that the Modi government remains committed to long-pending demands of Himachal Pradesh’s apple-growing community, noting that the revised policy structure aims to restrict dumping of low-cost apples from countries like the United States and Iran. “The MIP hike acts as a strong deterrent for importers of cheap apples,” he asserted.

However, the BJP leader sidestepped pointed questions raised by the Congress about the possibility of the Centre lowering the statutory import duty cap, currently at 50%, during bilateral trade talks with the US scheduled for July 8.

In response to these fears, Bragta placed the blame on past governments. “The 50% duty ceiling was committed during the UPA regime by then Commerce Minister Anand Sharma. These international trade agreements now bind us. If it were up to the Modi government alone, we would have raised the duty beyond 50%,” he stated.

The US, for its part, continues to push for tariff relaxations. President Donald Trump recently remarked at the White House that a “different kind of deal” with India may be on the horizon — one that includes “much less tariffs.” The United States is lobbying for easier access for its agricultural exports, including apples and almonds, while India seeks better entry into the American market for its textiles, gems, and agricultural products.

As the July 8 trade dialogue approaches, growers in Himachal Pradesh and other apple-producing states remain watchful, wary of any policy moves that might compromise domestic orchardists.

About the Author

Himachalscape bureau

Administrator

The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

View All Posts

Himachalscape bureau

The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.