Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the government is considering a request to reduce the GST on handicrafts from 12% to 5%. This reduction has been demanded by the industry. The proposal will be discussed with the Finance Ministry. The aim is to support artisans and boost the sector.

Speaking at a trade conclave in Srinagar, Goyal said Indian handicrafts, handlooms, and farm products will gain access to more global markets. This will occur as India signs new Free Trade Agreements. He also mentioned plans to establish a Centre of Excellence. Additionally, a modern packaging unit will be established in Jammu and Kashmir, following local requests.

Regarding apple imports, Goyal explained that imported apples are already costly—priced at Rs 125–150 per kg. This is due to a minimum import price of Rs 50, plus a 50% import duty, cesses, and other associated costs. He said the government is protecting domestic growers. However, they must also keep apples affordable for 140 crore consumers.

India imports about 4.5 to 5 lakh tonnes of apples each year as production doesn’t meet local demand. Goyal assured support for boosting the exports of apples, cherries, walnuts, and strawberries from Jammu and Kashmir. He said he would discuss ways to raise import prices with the Agriculture Minister further.

He added that the government is also working on improving cold storage chains to extend the shelf life of farm produce. This will help support exports.

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