Shimla: Since the coming of Donald Trump as the US President in his second term, he is adamant to impose reciprocal tariffs on several nations, including India. The ongoing tariff war is likely to hit the apple farmers of Himachal Pradesh. As per a report, the Indian government has been considering reducing the import duty on American apples. If it takes place, then Himachal’s apple growers will have to face massive financial losses.
The US government is set to introduce reciprocal tariffs from April 2. India reduced the import duty on US apples from 70 to 50 percent in 2023. Therefore, a 19 percent increase was seen in apple imports from the US. This flow of apples put Himachal farmers under pressure as they can’t sell their product as cheap as the US apples.
As per the media report, the Indian government is expected to drop import duties on apples, almonds, and walnuts. Experts believe that such a move is dangerous for local farmers. Agriculture expert Dr. Devendra Sharma warns, “If the government cuts the import duty, apple growers will suffer. Farmers must raise their voices to prevent such a decision.”
Similarly, Harish Chauhan, convener of the Joint Farmers’ Forum, stated, “Donald Trump has claimed that India is ready to reduce import duty again. If that happens, apple farmers in Himachal will be devastated. Farmers should write to Prime Minister Modi, the Finance Minister, and the Commerce Minister to oppose this decision.”
Himachal farmers are on the receiving end. They know if American apples flooded in the Indian markets, then what would happen to their products. People like to purchase cheap apples and other fruits. Indian farmers are urging the government to increase the import duty of US apples and other fruits so that their livelihoods could be saved.
