In a significant turn of events for the horticulture industry in Kashmir, the recent boycott of Turkish products has sparked renewed optimism among local apple producers. Farmers in the Valley, who have long struggled against the influx of cheap apples imported from Turkey and Iran, are now hopeful that this decision will lead to better market prices for their homegrown apples.
The boycott comes in response to rising tensions following terrorist attacks in Pahalgam Kashmir and Turkey’s support for Pakistan during the Operation Sindoor, prompting Indian consumers to shun Turkish products, including apples. This shift in consumer behavior is expected to give Kashmiri apples a competitive edge, with traders anticipating a price increase of 10 to 15% as domestic apples become the preferred choice.
Bashir Ahmad, President of the Kashmir Fruit Association, expressed the sentiment of many farmers: “This has greatly affected our produce. Earlier, Turkish apples were priced lower than American apples, which harmed our industry. If the Indian trade body has decided on a boycott, it is good for our horticulture sector, and we hope to receive better prices.”
For the past five years, farmers in both Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have faced challenges due to an oversupply of imported apples. Last year alone, 23% of apples consumed in India were imported from Turkey, which made it increasingly difficult for local farmers to compete. However, with the boycott now in place, apple traders in Kashmir are optimistic about the future.
Shakir, an apple trader, said, “This will benefit us a lot here. People prefer imported apples; when that stops, they will buy Kashmiri apples. Our rates will go up.”
Kashmir is known for its vast apple production, contributing 2.2 million metric tons annually, while Himachal Pradesh adds another 600,000 metric tons. The apple industry is crucial to the Valley’s economy, accounting for 15% of Jammu and Kashmir’s GDP and providing livelihoods for over 700,000 families in Kashmir and more than 200,000 families in Himachal Pradesh.
As sales of Turkish apples dwindle across major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, local farmers are seeing a surge in demand for domestically produced apples. This trend not only promises better prices but also serves as a lifeline for millions employed in related sectors such as transport, cold storage, and packaging.
Bashir Ahmad emphasized the importance of this industry: “100% of people in Kashmir depend directly or indirectly on this industry. It is the backbone of our economy.”
Experts predict that if Kashmiri apples perform well this season, it could inject thousands of crores into the local economy, significantly bolstering the livelihoods of farmers and associated businesses.
Also Read: Himachal Apple Farmers Demand Complete Ban On Turkish Imports Citing Support To Pakistan
