Indian importers: China apple export prices very competitive

As the world's second largest apple country, India has until now always carried out strict requirements towards imported apples. "Until now, India collected 50% tariffs on all imported apples,"� said Tarun Arora, the representative of India's fruit and vegetable giant IC International, to Chinese fruit web portal.

Although, it is difficult to predict the exact apple output in India this year, the Indian industry expects the amount will reach to 8 million trunks. At the same time, Tarun said that this year the Chinese apple prices are very competitive and very popular on the Indian market. "Due to better prices, I think the amount of Chinese apple imports will rise."

It is understood, that last year Chinese Fuji apple prices reached to 50 American Dollars per trunk (20 KG), while this year the price was only 41 - 42 American Dollars. Compared to the same period last year, the price fell by nearly 20%. Terrain told Chinese fruit web portal that Indian consumers like red apples with a very sweet taste. Hauniu, Qinguan and Fuji are the main Chinese apple varieties imported by India. Apples produced in Shandong province are the most popular with consumers.

"Although the Indian consumer is relatively sensitive towards the price, along with the consumers growing health consciousness, the buyers capability is increasing. The demand for fruit and vegetables in India just started to rise gradually," said Tarun.