In Kashmir, stakeholders in the apple industry are facing significant financial setbacks due to a decrease in demand for apples, leading to a notable drop in prices. A fruit grower from Shopian shared an experience of declining offers for apple boxes; from Rs 1,200 in November to around Rs 800 currently, a stark contrast to the anticipated Rs 1,800-2,000. Similarly, an apple trader observed a reduction in selling prices from the purchase rates of Rs 1,000-1,500 per box in the previous November to Rs 1,000 now.
Expectations of a demand increase in the spring led to the storage of apples in cold facilities, but the forecasted demand surge did not occur, exacerbating losses. A cold store manager noted a decrease in apple rates by Rs 300-400 per box, with Kulu boxes now selling for around Rs 1,000 and Delicious apples for about Rs 800. Despite incurring cold storage expenses of Rs 300-400 per box, achieving last year's peak season rates has become unattainable for many in the sector.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: kashmirlife.net