Fruit markets in Chennai, India, are currently experiencing a well-stocked influx of both imported and domestically grown fruits, signaling the commencement of the new season. Supermarkets and wholesale vendors at Koyambedu are offering a selection of imported varieties, including pears from South Africa, blueberries from Peru, oranges from Australia, apples from New Zealand, and grapes from China, each labeled with its country of origin.
Simultaneously, exotic fruits grown within India, such as dragon fruit, jamun, fig, mangosteen, rambutan, and dates, are arriving from areas like Ooty, Kodaikanal, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Fruit Association president S. Srinivasan indicates that although the mango and jackfruit seasons are concluding, native apples from Himachal Pradesh are yet to make an entry, and imported fruits are filling this gap.
In the preceding ten days, wholesale demand for New Zealand's Royal Gala apples has surged, with prices ranging between $54 and $57 per 17kg box. Turkish apples have vacated the market, while Egyptian oranges remain available. Orders for South African oranges and mandarins are anticipated in the forthcoming weeks.
South African pears are priced at $0.30 to $0.36 per piece in bulk purchases, whereas Chilean pears sell for $29 to $31 per 12kg carton. Peruvian blueberries are set at $23 to $24 per carton, containing 12 packs of 120g each. Vendors mention that supermarket prices might rise due to perishability and handling losses.
Market management committee member K. Jayaraman observes a presence of good-quality domestic fruits, such as mangosteen, rambutan, jamun, and large guavas. The influx of imported and exotic fruits is projected to decline by September, preceding the festive season in India.
Source: Times of India
