Pune: Decision On 1% User Charges In Market Yard’s Grain Market Expected Soon
Pune: Decision On 1% User Charges In Market Yard’s Grain Market Expected Soon
Pune, June 29, 2026: A decision on the proposed 1% user charges in the grain (Bhusar) market at the Pune Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) is expected soon, with a committee set to submit its report to the State Marketing Minister after reviewing objections raised by traders.
The controversy began after the Director of Marketing issued a circular proposing a 1% user charge on transactions involving grain and allied commodities in the Bhusar market. The proposal triggered strong opposition from traders, who argued that the additional levy would adversely affect business and increase the financial burden on both traders and consumers.
Following representations by trader associations, the Marketing Minister directed officials to constitute a committee to examine the issue and submit its recommendations. Discussions within the committee are currently underway, and a final decision is expected shortly.
Meanwhile, Minister of State and MLA Madhuri Misal has also urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to declare the Pune Agricultural Produce Market Committee as a National Market Committee. She continues to pursue the matter with the state government.
Traders Fear Decline in Grain Market Business
According to trader associations, particularly The Poona Merchants’ Chamber, the proposed user charge could significantly impact the traditional trading ecosystem. They have consistently opposed the levy, stating that despite repeated objections, the proposal has continued to move forward, creating uncertainty within the market.
Traders believe the additional 1% charge will ultimately be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices. They warn that essential commodities such as pulses, sugar, edible oil, semolina, wheat flour and refined flour could become more expensive, placing an additional burden on households already dealing with rising costs.
Concerns Over Double Financial Burden
The Market Committee already collects plot-wise maintenance charges from traders. Merchant bodies have questioned the need to impose an additional transaction-based user charge when maintenance fees are already being recovered.
They also pointed out that many commodities traded in the market are already subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST) ranging from 5% to 18%. Imposing another 1% user charge, they argue, would amount to an unfair double financial burden on businesses.
Traders Raise Concerns Over Regulatory Hurdles
Several traders have expressed concerns that increasing regulatory requirements and additional levies are making business operations more difficult. They contend that instead of focusing on market competition and business growth, they are increasingly burdened by complex rules and administrative procedures imposed by the Market Committee, which they say is affecting the overall development of the grain trade.
The committee’s report is expected to play a crucial role in determining whether the proposed user charges will be implemented or revised.
