The Indian Government is planning to implement a 25% tariff on U.S. apples from August 4, in retaliation to U.S. duties on steel and aluminum imports.

In May, however, India has said notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its intention to implement an additional 30% duty by June 21.

The 25% increase means U.S. apples will be subject to a 75% tariff, with all other origins subject to 50%.

Tax authorities said the date for imposing duty has been announced in advance so that “there is room available for negotiation, if possible," The Hindu Business Line reported.

Washington Apple Commission president Todd Fryhover told Fresh Fruit Portal in May that India had become the state's leading market for the 2017-18 season, ahead of Mexico.

India typically imports around 160,000 metric tons (MT) of U.S. apples annually valued at around US$160 million

Tarun Arora, director of one of India's leading produce distributors, told The Hindu Business Line 25% tariff hike on Washington apples will clip volumes and raise prices, reportedly saying that a 60-70% volume drop was likely.

“We would possibly be looking at some 50,000 tonnes of imports of about $50-60 million,” he was quoted as saying.

www.freshfruitportal.com