The market for premium stone fruits continues to strengthen in India, with the USA remaining a niche but highly sought-after source, says Arun Uttamchandani, owner of Mumbai-based fresh fruit importer Pushpbhuj Impex. "USA produce is considered very premium, and because we cater mostly to discerning clients, we focus on bringing them the best quality possible."
The U.S. stone fruit season runs from mid-June to mid-September, with weekly shipments of cherries, white-flesh peaches, and nectarines arriving consistently. Uttamchandani explains that white-flesh stone fruit varieties are more sought after due to their higher Brix levels compared to yellow-flesh fruits, which tend to be more acidic and less preferred.
© Pushpbhuj Impex
"Cherries dominate the imported stone fruit market, followed by nectarines and peaches. Apricots have limited demand, but Uttamchandani says he is keen on new prospects planned later in the year: "We're planning to trial with unique Australian varieties like Red Velvet and Burgundy apricots. These are rare finds that Indian consumers haven't seen or tasted before. It's a great way to bring fresh flavors and excitement to the market."
Plums, by contrast, do not hold a strong position in the premium segment, Uttamchandani notes. "Plums mostly come in by sea from Chile or China and are priced much lower. They're not considered premium and have limited demand among our discerning buyers."
© Pushpbhuj Impex
According to Uttamchandani, there is a clear price segmentation among origins. "Spain and Turkey mainly cater to price-sensitive buyers, while stone fruits from the USA and Australia command a 30 to 40 percent price premium over Spanish and Turkish origins. Retailers and event management companies that cater to upscale clientele are willing to pay this premium in return for consistent quality, sweetness, and reliable supply."
Spain's season extends through mid-October, following the U.S. crop. Australia's stone fruit season kicks off mid-October with a short harvest window, especially for Tasmanian cherries. "Australian cherries are exquisite but only available for about a month. We want to bring these alongside unique apricot varieties that no one else imports," Uttamchandani shares.
© Pushpbhuj Impex
With the U.S. season ending soon, Pushpbhuj Impex is preparing to switch to Chilean cherries in November and then ramp up Australian imports during India's wedding season, which will run from November to June. "We're convinced that there's a real appetite for variety in India, and will continue to introduce new fruit experiences by bringing fresh and rare stone fruit flavors to the table," Uttamchandani concludes.
For more information:
Arun Uttamchandani
Pushpbhuj Impex
Tel: +91 9892111902
Email: [email protected]
