New Zealand pome fruit body Pipfruit NZ is not jumping to any conclusions in response to Indian political posturing over banning apple imports, citing a relatively optimistic outlook for trade with the South Asian country.

India's newly-elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously spoke publicly about how he would work to ban all apple imports if elected, so homegrown varieties could flourish.

Pipfruit NZ technical manager Mike Butcher told www.freshfruitportal.com he would be surprised if such extreme measures were imposed on the apple trade, especially given Modi's pro-commerce stance.

"I can't see why they would want to ban imports given the relatively low production in the country. I think there would be significant international discussions with the Indian government if they announced something like that," he said.

"I believe the governments of the two countries will be able to work together to resolve any issues that might come up."

Over recent years the New Zealand apple industry has been working closely with Indian producers to help them increase yield and quality.

This has led to speculation from some that New Zealand exporters might be treated more favorably by India should any ban or restrictions be implemented, though Butcher said he did not imagine that would be the case.

"If it was a general ban on apples then India would have to be seen to be treating everyone the same and it's unlikely that there would be any preferential treatment for New Zealand," he said.

It is understood the New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is holding an important meeting in the next few days, although Butcher said it was a regular event and not of specific relevance to the situation in India.

"We are always watching markets where we trade to look for any issues or opportunities," he said.

According to Pipfruit NZ, the Indian market represents 0.04% of New Zealand's apple trade, and 13.7% of total Asian shipments.

Related story: India Himachal Pradesh apple growers feel "air of change" with Modi

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