In Maharashtra, particularly in Nagpur, farmers are confronting challenges in exporting oranges to Bangladesh. The trade volume has diminished significantly from 6,000 tonnes daily due to an increase in import duty by Bangladesh from Rs 20 to Rs 88 per kg in November 2023.
This hike has rendered the trade unprofitable for Bangladeshi importers, leading to a decline in demand. The situation is believed to be a retaliatory measure against India's previous ban on onion exports, a crucial ingredient in Bangladeshi cuisine, to safeguard its domestic market. Despite India lifting the onion export ban to several countries, including Bangladesh, it remains uncertain if Bangladesh will reciprocate by lowering the orange import duty. The outcome of this trade dispute is critical for Maharashtra's farmers, who are the leading orange producers in India, as it affects their livelihood and the economic viability of the next harvest season.
India's Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal, acknowledged the adverse effects of Bangladesh's increased import duties on Indian orange exports in the Lok Sabha, revealing attempts to negotiate a more favorable trade policy for the benefit of Indian farmers. The resolution of this trade issue holds significance for the agricultural trade relations between India and Bangladesh.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: anytvnews.com