Srinagar, Kashmiri apple growers are experiencing a significant economic downturn as their market share is drastically undercut by an influx of imported apples.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the introduction of cheaper foreign apples from countries such as South Africa and Iran has led to a dramatic 50% drop in apple prices compared to the previous year. Bashir Ahmad Basheer, Chairman of the All Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers-cum-Dealers Union, highlighted the severe impact on local farmers and traders, with some grades of apples seeing price reductions as high as 60%. He has called on the government to implement protective measures such as import taxes to defend the local industry.
The crisis has been exacerbated by an oversupply in the market, with controlled atmosphere storage units still filled with last year’s harvest, adding pressure on growers as they face upcoming seasons for other fruits. The industry’s plight is significant given its role as a major employer and economic driver in the region. Growers are appealing to the central government for intervention through subsidies and financial assistance to mitigate losses and stabilize the sector.