Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], May 20: Apple growers in Himachal Pradesh have called for a total ban on the import of Turkish apples, citing economic harm to local farmers and Turkey’s alleged political support to Pakistan during a sensitive period in India’s security operations.
A joint delegation led by Harish Chauhan, convener of the Himachal Pradesh Sanyukt Kisan Manch, submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister and President of India through the Governor of Himachal Pradesh, seeking immediate intervention.
Speaking to ANI, Chauhan said,
“Turkey is an ally of our enemy nation. It supported Pakistan during a critical time when India was fighting against terrorism under Operation Sindoor. In February 2023, when a massive earthquake hit Turkey, India stood by them on humanitarian grounds. In return, they supported Pakistan. That’s a betrayal.”
According to Chauhan, Turkey has become the leading exporter of apples to India, significantly impacting local production and pricing in Himachal’s apple-growing belt.
“The farmers here are facing a major crisis due to the dumping of cheap imported apples. We demand a total boycott and ban of Turkish apples to safeguard our economy and farmers,” he added.
The delegation highlighted that India spends Rs 800 to Rs 1,000 crore annually on imported apples, a large portion of which goes to Turkish exporters. Chauhan argued that halting this trade would strike an economic blow to Turkey while simultaneously benefiting Indian apple farmers.
The Governor of Himachal Pradesh reportedly assured the delegation that their concerns would be forwarded to the central leadership. Chauhan extended gratitude to farmers and traders from Madhya Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand for joining the call to boycott Turkish apples.
“I thank the 140 crore Indians who’ve pledged not to consume Turkish apples. This united stance sends a powerful message against those who side with our adversaries,” Chauhan said.
The delegation also warned the central government not to reduce import duties on apples, revealing that both Turkey and the United States have lobbied for zero-duty access to the Indian market.
“Reducing import duty would be a death sentence for farmers in Himachal, J&K, and Uttarakhand. We demand the minimum import price (MIP) be increased to Rs 100/kg and higher duties on apples from all countries, including Iran,” Chauhan asserted.
The farmers’ protest underscores a growing intersection between agricultural protectionism and geopolitical tensions, as domestic producers push for economic nationalism in response to foreign policy decisions.