J&K’s horticulture sector should prepare for possible tougher times

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Ziraat Times
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The news that the Union Government may slash tariffs on American apples, walnuts, and almonds as part of its trade negotiations with the United States has sent ripples of anxiety through Kashmir’s horticulture sector. Global trade dynamics are changing rapidly. Old rules are changing. Countries are safeguarding their larger core economic interests. Smaller  economic systems, without any leverage, don’t seem to matter. For decades, Kashmiri apples have dominated the domestic markets, providing livelihoods to over four  million people. Yet, these global dynamics and this potential policy shift could open the floodgates to cheaper, high-quality American produce, posing a serious threat to an already vulnerable industry.

For Kashmir’s apple farmers all these developments spell the need for urgent introspection and preparation for both worse and worst-case scenarios. With American apples entering market at competitive prices, Kashmiri produce — already struggling with quality, logistics, and storage challenges — may find it hard to compete.

First, quality enhancement must become a non-negotiable priority. Most Kashmiri orchards are still dependent on traditional varieties with limited visual appeal and inconsistent grading. Transitioning towards high quality and adopting modern agricultural practices can significantly improve fruit quality and yield. Progressive farmers in Shopian, Anantnag, Pulwama, Baramulla and other places have already shown the way; others must follow suit without delay.

Second, cold storage and efficient supply chains are critical. Farmers often suffer due to poor post-harvest infrastructure, leading to wastage and low prices. Public and private investment in cold chains are still needed so that better market linkages could protect apple farmers from distress sales.

Third, diversifying markets is essential. Relying solely on  metropolitan markets makes Kashmiri apples vulnerable. Exploring new markets, both domestically in Tier-2 cities and internationally with good demand, could offer fresh opportunities.

Finally, policymakers in J&K must advocate for protective measures such as subsidies and crop insurance schemes to shield farmers from the full brunt of tariff reductions.

Kashmir’s apple industry has survived challenges before. But the potential entry of American produce with zero of little tariffs is a different situation altogether. If preparedness, innovation, and policy support come together now, Kashmiri apple farmers can still survive and thrive in this new, competitive landscape.

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363 COMMENTS

  1. There is no reason Kashmiri fruit products cannot compete with American produce if they pay extra attention to improvement in quality and yields. Government should sincerely help.

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