An agreement between India and South Africa, permitting the in-transit sterilization of South African apples and pears, has led to an increase in the market share of these fruits in India. This development has expedited the entry of South African fruit into Indian retail environments, intensifying competition for Kashmiri apples. The arrangement has been met with concern from local growers and buyers, who have noted a significant reduction in apple prices outside the peak season in October-November 2023. The proliferation of South African apples in supermarkets and on digital commerce platforms has decreased the demand for apples from Kashmir, causing price drops and financial losses for the region's growers and buyers.
A fruit grower from Shopian reported a substantial decrease in the price received for apple boxes, from Rs 800-1000 during the spring season to current rates, which have led to economic difficulties. Additionally, growers have indicated that buyers who had previously purchased apples at higher prices are now facing diminished returns, alongside incurring cold storage costs of around Rs 300 per box. Bashir Ahmad Basheer, chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, highlighted the adverse impact of increased South African apple imports on the local market, estimating losses exceeding 40% for growers.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: pakobserver.net