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Minimum Import Price for Apples

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TOI

 Context: The Central Government of India has introduced the Minimum Import Price (MIP) for apples in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) to protect the domestic industry from unfair competition and predatory pricing.

 

What is MIP?

MIP is a temporary measure implemented by a government to protect domestic industries from unfair competition and predatory pricing of imported goods. The MIP sets a minimum price below which the import of a particular commodity is not allowed.

 

Who frames the rules:

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is the arm of the commerce ministry responsible for framing rules related to exports and imports, including the implementation of MIPs.

 

Significance: By setting a minimum import price, the government aims to prevent apple imports from flooding the market at excessively low prices, and provide a level playing field to farmers in J&K.

 

About Apple cultivation:

 Apple cultivation in India primarily takes place in regions such as Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, the hills of Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal. It is also grown to a lesser extent in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Punjab, and Sikkim. China produces the world’s largest number of apples. India is ranked 5th.

 

Climatic condition for Apples:

 The ideal climatic conditions for apple cultivation include an average summer temperature of 21-24 degrees Celsius during the active growth period. Apple trees can be grown at altitudes ranging from 1500 to 2700 meters above sea level. Well-distributed rainfall of 1000-1250 mm throughout the growing season is most favourable for the optimal growth and fruitfulness of apple trees. Additionally, apples thrive best in well-drained, loamy soils.