Kashmir’s apple industry in crisis: Growers struggle amid foreign fruit influx in Indian markets
Srinagar: The Kashmiri apple growers are facing an unprecedented crisis as the demand for their produce plummets across India due to influx of imported apples from various countries, which, many believe, is a deliberate attempt on part of the Modi regime to inflict significant losses on the apple industry in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Kashmir Valley.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Kashmir growers are witnessing a staggering 50% drop in prices of apples compared to last year. The influx of imported apples from countries like South Africa and Iran has dealt a severe blow to the local industry, leaving farmers and traders reeling.
According to the Chairman of All Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers-cum-Dealers Union, Bashir Ahmad Basheer, the situation is dire. “The foreign apple influx has hit our industry hard. We urge the government to impose taxes on imported apples to safeguard our local industry.”
“The price erosion is stark, with A-grade apple boxes fetching 40% less and B-grade apples plummeting by a staggering 60%. Farmers are struggling to cover costs, including pesticide, harvesting, packaging, and storage charges, as their produce fetches meager returns” he added.
The apple industry is a vital component of Kashmir’s economy, contributing significantly to agricultural output and providing employment to thousands.
Growers’ associations are demanding New Delhi’s intervention, including import duties on foreign apples, subsidies, and financial assistance to help farmers cope with the losses and ensure the industry’s survival. “The increasing presence of South African and Iranian apples in retail supermarkets and on e-commerce platforms across India has exacerbated the situation. This influx of imported apples has further reduced the demand for Kashmiri apples, driving prices down and causing substantial losses for growers and traders,” they said.
With CA [controlled atmosphere] storage units occupied with last year’s produce, growers are facing a race against time to clear their stock before the upcoming harvest of peaches, cherries, and other products.”
Experts attribute the market downturn to multiple factors, including the import of apples from various countries, including Africa and Iran, being a major contributor.
