It's been a positive and stable grape season in India, says Swapnil Aware, Board member for Indian grape exporter Mersel Foods: "The grape season commenced in December with relatively low initial volumes, accompanied by various quality-related challenges. However, as the season progressed, both the quality and the yield improved significantly. The climate over the past few months has been highly favourable for grape cultivation, with an average daytime temperature of 19-20°C. Additionally, this year, we haven't experienced any unseasonal rainfall, which has contributed to stable production. We have successfully met all our production targets and loading schedules up to week 9. However, the availability of grapes is already on the decline and rates are steeply rising. The season is expected to end two weeks earlier than usual, and there will be very insignificant volume left for export at the end of March."
According to Aware, there's been a shift in demand for certain grape varieties. "In addition to the traditional varieties, such as Thompson, Sonaka, and Sharad Seedless, there has been a notable surge in demand for other varieties, particularly Crimson Seedless. Recognizing this trend, many growers are now planning to cultivate these new varieties to enhance their income potential. Furthermore, there has been a significant rise in domestic market demand for grapes, primarily due to a shorter winter and the early onset of summer."
The earlier end of the season is a result of the limited production of Indian grapes this season, Aware explains: "Compared to the previous season, grape volumes have declined by approximately 20%. Last year, we witnessed a bumper crop, whereas this year, production has been below-average. Additionally, increased domestic demand has contributed to a shortage of fruit available for export markets. The demand for grapes has remained strong in both domestic and international markets. However, the increased local consumption has impacted the supply available for exports. Our primary export destinations continue to show consistent demand, and we are working closely with our growers and partners to maintain supply chain efficiency."
With lower production comes a higher price, especially as the grape season progresses, Aware states. "As observed in previous years, grape prices were at the higher end during the early season and then gradually declined through the season. This year, the prices declined towards the end of January and remained relatively stable until mid-February before beginning to rise again in the latter half of the month. The prices continue to rise as we advance through the month of March. This year's price fluctuations have been quite different from previous trends. Looking ahead, prices are expected to continue rising due to increasing domestic demand and below-average yield of harvest."
Soon, the South African grapes will also make their way to the various export markets, which could have consequences for the Indian gapes as well, Aware emphasizes: "One of our major challenges moving forward is the influx of South African grapes into the market, which may exert further pressure on pricing and competition. Longer transit and unpredictable arrival of containers have continued to haunt exporters with quality problems. To tackle these challenges, our expert procurement team is working closely with growers, the production team is taking extra measures in the post-harvest-handling procedure and the sales team is closely monitoring the market trends. Our goal is to stabilize fruit prices and maintain a consistent supply, ensuring that we fulfill all our commitments to our clients."
"We remain optimistic about completing all our scheduled programs while maintaining the high quality that we are known for. We are committed to delivering premium grapes, ensuring customer satisfaction and sustainable business growth," Aware concludes.
For more information:
Mr. Samir Singh
Mersel Foods Pvt. Ltd.
Tel: +371-29516075
Email: samir@unisel.lv
www.merselfoods.com