Exotic fruit sales in Russia have surged due to increasing prices for traditionally imported bananas and oranges, according to an NTech study. In the first half of 2023, pomelo sales tripled, papayas increased 2.5 times, and rambutans grew by 1.5 times. However, demand for conventional fruits like bananas, watermelons, and grapes remained stable.
The rise in expenditure on nuts, fruits, and berries underscores the trend toward diverse and high-quality food products. Fresh fruits and vegetables represent a significant category in Russian food expenses, with analysts predicting its share to increase from 13.37% to 14.56% by the end of 2023.
Tamara Reshetnikova, CEO of "Technologies of Growth," acknowledges the growth in exotic fruit sales, attributing it to a low base and changing consumption patterns. With bananas and oranges experiencing price hikes of 40-50%, some Russians are turning to exotic fruits. Reshetnikova notes that this consumption trend aligns with a focus on a healthy lifestyle.
She cautions that if prices for popular fruits don't decrease, consumption volumes may decline. However, the consumption of exotic fruits is expected to grow, replacing popular fruits. Reshetnikova suggests that increased consumption of exotic fruits may indicate consumer optimism and a desire to indulge during challenging times.
source: agroinvestor.ru