Cooperatives are investing in grading, packing and storage to get better prices for the crop.

Industry representatives asked for faster approvals and better road links to keep costs down.

What happens next

Traders said the move would help local producers reach larger markets, with orchard growers and craft cooperatives among the first to benefit.

Economists noted that the hill economy depends heavily on tourism and apples, and that diversifying into processing and handicrafts would add stability.