Shimla, January 13, 2026
Fearing a surge in unbridled imports of apples, pears and kiwi from New Zealand under the proposed trade agreement between India and New Zealand, various farmers’ organisations on Monday met Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and urged him to take up the issue strongly with the Centre.
Growers warned that any move to lift curbs or reduce import duties on these fruits would “ruin Himachal Pradesh’s horticulture industry”.
Addressing a meeting with representatives of orchardists and progressive growers here, the Chief Minister said apple cultivation is the backbone of the state’s economy and its protection and promotion is the top priority of the state government.
CM Sukhu expressed concern over reports of a possible reduction in import duty on apples coming from New Zealand.
“Any cut in import duty from 50 per cent will directly hit our orchardists. I will raise this matter with the Central government at the highest level,” he said, adding that he would personally meet the Union Finance Minister and Union Commerce Minister to press for safeguarding the interests of Himachal’s growers.
Growers were vocal about their fears. Sanjay Chauhan, president of the Himachal Apple Producers Association, said, “If cheap imported apples flood the Indian market, local growers will not be able to compete. Our cost of production is already high due to rising input prices and climate challenges.”
Rakesh Singha, state secretary of Himachal Kisan Sabha, said the trade agreement should not come at the cost of farmers. “Free trade cannot mean free destruction of domestic agriculture. The Centre must ensure protection for local produce,” he asserted.
Deepak Singha, president of the Stone Fruit Growers Association, warned that the impact would not be limited to apples alone. “Pears, kiwi and other fruits will also suffer. Thousands of families in hill districts depend on horticulture. Their livelihoods are at stake,” he said.
Progressive Growers Association vice-president Ashutosh Chauhan said the government must build a strong case. “We need strict quality checks and adequate import duty to protect Indian farmers from unfair competition,” he added.
Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Chief Minister’s principal advisor Ram Subhag Singh, Secretary C. Palrasu, Director Horticulture Vinay Singh and other officials were also present at the meeting.
The Chief Minister assured growers that the state government stands firmly with them and will not allow any policy that harms Himachal’s horticulture sector. “Our farmers’ interests are non-negotiable,” he said.
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