In a strategic move to capture India's growing appetite for premium fruit, Indian fresh produce importer and consultancy Scion Agricos has partnered with New Zealand–based grower Bearsley Exports to introduce a new premium apple variety called NZ Rouge to the Indian market in mid-August.
The partnership was established during a New Zealand agri-entrepreneur mission hosted by the Asia New Zealand Foundation in March 2025. "Bearsley was seeking a direct route into the Indian market, and we were looking for the right variety to expand our premium apple offerings," says Chiranjeevi A R, Managing Director at Scion Agricos. This variety will be distributed nationally through D.B. Ursal & Grandsons, under Bearsley's flagship brand NZ Apple Co.
© Scion Agricos
Chiranjeevi points to Rouge's elite parentage, bred from NZ Splendour, Braeburn, and Granny Smith, to combine high natural sweetness at 18° Brix with layered tropical flavour, crisp texture, and visually striking deep red hue. "It's not just another red apple," says Chiranjeevi. "Rouge promises a consistent, ultra-premium eating experience and is well-suited for Indian consumers who prefer sweeter fruit profiles," he adds.
The rollout will begin with a soft launch in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, supported by sampling campaigns and co-branded messaging with emphasis on quality, freshness, and origin storytelling. According to Danny Bearsley, Managing Director at Bearsley Exports: "Since launching Rouge in 2020, we've seen strong demand across Southeast Asia. Its sweetness, juiciness, and crisp flesh are exactly what Indian consumers love. We're excited to work with Scion Agricos to bring this variety to India."
© Scion Agricos
"India's imported apple market, which was valued at USD 400 million in FY 2023–24, is projected to grow 8–12% annually, driven by premiumisation and broader retail access. With geopolitical tensions and potential tariff changes on apples from Turkey and Iran posing challenges, new opportunities are being created for stable suppliers like New Zealand.
Going forward, Scion Agricos plans to scale imports from proven markets, including Poland, the US, and NZ, while expanding into private label formats and repacking to better serve modern retail and e-commerce platforms.
© Scion Agricos
"As imported apple consumption in India continues to evolve, we're committed to linking the best of global apple production with a growing appetite for quality. Rouge is just the beginning," concludes Chiranjeevi.
For more information:
Chiranjeevi A R
Scion Agricos
Tel: +91-81 97 696 234
Email: [email protected]
www.scionagricos.com
