India links duty concessions on NZ apples, kiwifruit to agri action plans

Quota-based duty concessions granted by India to New Zealand for apples, kiwifruit, and Manuka honey are linked to the delivery of agriculture productivity action plans committed by the island country under the free trade agreement. The implementation of the plans will be monitored by a Joint Agriculture Productivity Council (JAPC). According to the pact, the move is aimed at balancing market access with protection of sensitive domestic agricultural sectors. New Zealand has agreed on focused action plans for kiwifruit, apples, and honey to improve productivity, quality, and sectoral capabilities in India. The cooperation includes the establishment of centres of excellence, improved planting material, capacity building for growers, technical support for orchard management, post-harvest practices, supply chains, and food safety. Projects for premium apple cultivators and sustainable beekeeping practices will enhance production and quality standards in India. "All tariff rate quotas