Amid the rising concern among apple growers over the reduction in duties on apples imported from New Zealand to India as part of a new free trade agreement (FTA) between the two countries, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday (January 13, 2026) said he would firmly raise the issue before the Union government to protect the interests of the local growers.

In Shimla, chairing a meeting with representatives of progressive orchardists of the State, the Chief Minister listened to their concern over the Centre’s move of slashing import duty on New Zealand apples from 50% to 25%, which the growers assert would severely impact their livelihoods.

‘Top priority for govt.’

Mr. Sukhu assured apple growers that he would raise the issue with the Centre to address their concerns. “I will meet the Union Finance [Minister] and the Commerce Minister and urge them to take necessary measures to protect the interests of the orchardists of the State,” he said, adding that apple production was a major pillar of the hill State’s economy and its protection and promotion was a top priority of the government.

The apple industry is the backbone of Himachal Pradesh’s economy, contributing approximately ₹5,000-6,000 crore annually and supporting over 1.5 lakh families, primarily small and marginal farmers. Himachal Pradesh produces approximately 6.5 lakh metric tonnes of apples each year — nearly 25% of India’s total output, according to the State’s Horticulture Department.

Small-scale farmers in the region depend on apples as their main income source, with few alternatives for diversification given the challenging hilly landscape.