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AICC urges Centre to safeguard interests of Himachal apple growers amid US tariff war

Shimla, Apr 14 (UNI) AICC spokesperson and MLA from Theog, Kuldeep Singh Rathore, expressed satisfaction over the temporary suspension of the US tariff war for 90 days but strongly urged the central government to use this window to advocate for the interests of Indian farmers and gardeners, especially those from Himachal Pradesh.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Rathore reiterated his long-standing demand for a significant increase in import duty on foreign apples, asserting that the Rs 5,000 crore apple economy of Himachal Pradesh is under serious threat due to unregulated imports.
Rathore highlighted that the influx of heavily subsidized apples from the US is undermining local produce and demanded that the Modi government fulfil its promise to increase apple import duty up to 100 percent.
“This is the time for the BJP to rise to the occasion and take decisive action to protect our farmers,” he said.
Condemning the consistent pressure by the US administration to reduce tariffs on imported apples, Rathore pointed out that the Donald Trump-led policies have also adversely impacted other crucial sectors in the state, including woollen products and the pharmaceutical industry.
He stated that lowering import duties under foreign pressure would be a direct blow to domestic producers.
“The government should not bow to external pressure,” Rathore said, “especially when the US is hiking export tariffs on Indian goods by 26 percent. We must respond firmly to protect our economy and our people.”
The North Western Himalayan state, which shares its border with China, has joined a growing list of regions opposing US trade practices.
Rathore also took a strong stance against the reported mistreatment of Indian immigrants in the US, citing growing concerns over discriminatory policies and the exploitation of Indian workers seeking employment opportunities abroad.
UNI ML SS
Tags: #AICC urges Centre to safeguard interests of Himachal apple growers amid US tariff war
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