In a move aimed at easing price pressures and improving consumer access, the government has proposed to halve the import duty on apples, while keeping dairy products outside the ambit of any duty concessions, signalling a calibrated approach to agri-trade liberalisation.
According to official sources, the reduction in import duty on apples is intended to address domestic supply constraints, especially during lean seasons, and stabilise prices in urban markets. The decision is also expected to benefit importers and retailers, while providing consumers with greater choice. However, the government has maintained that safeguards will remain in place to protect domestic apple growers, particularly in key producing states such as Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.
Industry experts say the move could lead to a moderate increase in apple imports, particularly from countries with which India has preferential trade arrangements. “A calibrated reduction in duty may help balance consumer demand without significantly hurting domestic producers, provided non-tariff safeguards remain strong,” an official said on condition of anonymity.
In contrast, dairy products have been kept out of any import duty reduction, reaffirming the government’s long-standing position to protect the interests of millions of small and marginal dairy farmers. Officials said dairy remains a politically and economically sensitive sector, deeply linked to rural livelihoods and food security.
India has consistently resisted opening up the dairy sector under free trade agreements, citing concerns over subsidised imports from developed economies. The latest decision underscores the government’s intent to maintain self-reliance in milk and milk products while continuing to promote domestic value addition.
Trade analysts believe the twin decisions reflect a selective trade policy, balancing consumer inflation management with farmer welfare. While fruit imports may see some easing, the firm stance on dairy is expected to reassure farmer groups and cooperatives.
The measures are likely to be closely watched by stakeholders across the agri-value chain, as the government continues to fine-tune its trade and tariff strategy amid global uncertainties and domestic inflation concerns.