Lower domestic production has resulted in strong demand for apples in India according to Prashant Gidwani, founder of Indian fruit importer Fresh Fruit Alliances: "The apple market in India has seen growth, with improved domestic production, particularly from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, thanks to better farming practices. This year's apple productions have been slightly short compared to last year, stabilizing supply and prices. Strong demand continues, driven by health-conscious consumers, and e-commerce platforms have made all apple varieties more accessible be it local or imported."
How much apples are imported relies on India's domestic production, as gaps need to be filled. Gidwani emphasizes this means that there's a complimentary relationship between domestic production and imports. "The apple market in India is influenced by the seasonal cycles of both domestic production and imports. Domestic apples, primarily grown in northern regions like Himachal Pradesh, and Kashmir, peak from August to October, when local harvests satisfy demand. During this time, imports slow down as consumers opt for fresh, locally grown varieties. However, once domestic supplies taper off after the harvest season, demand for imported apples rises to fill the gap and ensure year-round availability. This creates a complementary relationship between the two markets, with domestic apples providing freshness in the peak season and imports offering consistent quality throughout the year."
Prashant Gidwani
In the coming weeks there will be a shift from origins, as the apples from the southern hemisphere will start arriving in India, Gidwani explains: "The northern hemisphere apple season is still ongoing, with Iran, Turkey, and Poland dominating apple imports in India. Given their aggressive pricing and relatively close geographical proximity, these origins meet the Indian market's price-driven demands. However, The southern hemisphere fruits are en route and should arrive anytime soon. South Africa and Chile are the most famous origins from the Southern Hemisphere, followed by New Zealand."
The fact that European apple production is lower than in previous years does have an effect for the imports in India, says Gidwani. "Global apple prices are currently higher due to factors like lower yields, weather issues, and increased demand for premium varieties, particularly from the US and Europe. Overall, the market is balancing higher costs for premium apples with more affordable options from countries with a steady supply."
Recently, multiple reports have shown a desire to invest more in Indian ports. Gidwani acknowledges investments would be a big help for apple importers and exporters: "Investing in ports in India would greatly benefit the apple industry by improving the efficiency of imports and exports. Better port infrastructure would reduce shipping times, lower costs, and ensure fresher apples reach the markets. It would also help in handling larger volumes, allowing for smoother trade with countries globally, ultimately boosting availability and reducing supply chain disruptions. This would help meet the growing demand for apples in India more effectively."
More imports of apples are expected in the coming weeks: "It is likely that domestic apple supply will remain limited in the coming months as the stocks in the controlled atmosphere rooms decline, resulting in an increased reliance on imported apples. The market for imported apples is likely to remain strong as consumer preferences for quality and variety continue to grow," Gidwani concludes.
For more information:
Prashant Gidwani
Fresh Fruit Alliances Pvt. Ltd.
Prashant@freshfruitalliances.com
www.freshfruitalliances.com