At a trade conclave in Srinagar, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said India may reduce GST on handicrafts from 12% to 5% to support artisans. He also emphasized continuing apple imports despite growers’ concerns, to ensure affordability for 140 crore consumers. The government aims to boost exports, support cold chains, and balance farmer and consumer interests.

BulletsIn

• Govt may cut GST on handicrafts from 12% to 5%, request to go to Finance Ministry
• Move aimed at helping handicraft sector and artisans across India
• India to continue importing apples despite farmers’ demand for higher import barriers
• Imports priced ₹75–80/kg; retail cost rises to ₹125–150/kg due to logistics, taxes
• Goyal: Apple imports needed as India lacks sufficient domestic production
• India imports 4.5–5 lakh tonnes of apples annually to meet demand
• More FTAs expected to give market access to handicrafts, handlooms, agri goods
• Govt working on cold chains to extend shelf life of farm products for export
• Plans to promote exports of J&K apples, cherries, walnuts, and strawberries
• Center of excellence and packaging unit requested for J&K with new tech