Minimum Import Price (MIP) on Areca Nuts Raised

The Government has received representations from various stakeholders of Areca nuts industry against unabated import of Areca nuts from neighbouring countries taking advantage of low import duty provided under SAFTA. It has, therefore, been decided to increase the Minimum Import Price (MIP) on import of Areca nuts from existing Rs. 110/- per kg. to Rs.162/- per kg. with immediate effect to safeguard the interest of domestic farmers.

The FSSAI has also advised its Field offices to stringently adhere to the quality specifications of Areca nut before clearing the import consignments. This has been done with a view to prevent inferior quality Areca nut from entering Indian market and de-stabilise the domestic prices.

The Customs Authorities have been advised to check the rules of origin with utmost care so as to ensure that Areca nut grown in other countries is not imported through our neighbouring countries taking advantage of low import duty under SAFTA.

The increase in the existing MIP on import of Areca nuts will be in the interest of the domestic farmers.