India is currently witnessing a steady availability of kiwis, according to Yogesh Rathod, Director at Nova Fresco, a fresh produce importer. "The overall supply of imported kiwis remains stable, ensuring good accessibility," Rathod observes while noting a growing health awareness among urban consumers.
© Nova Fresco
"This year, a short supply of Iranian kiwis has tweaked the market dynamics. With fewer Iranian kiwis available, Indian importers turned more aggressively to Chilean fruit to meet ongoing demand. As a result, Chile is playing a more central role in India's kiwi market this year." Rathod explains.
According to him, the quality of imported Chilean kiwis has not matched last year's standards: "Chilean kiwis have shown some rubbery texture and quality issues compared to the previous seasons, which have slightly impacted their market reputation," Rathod says. "Such fluctuations are not uncommon in fresh produce imports, and when challenges like variable fruit quality or shipment delays arise, we swiftly move the affected fruit at reduced prices to minimize losses, clear inventory, and maintain product flow," he explains.
© Nova Fresco
Despite these hurdles, demand in India remains strong for the Hayward variety, which is sourced predominantly from Chile, New Zealand, and Iran. "Indian consumers show a clear preference for Hayward kiwis, valuing their consistent size, taste, and reliable shelf life," Rathod notes.
Pricing is another area where shifts have occurred this year. "Prices for Chilean kiwis are 10 to 15% higher compared to last season," Rathod confirms. "The increase has been driven largely by global freight cost escalations, tighter availability of premium-grade fruit, and a general increase in fresh fruit inflation."
© Nova Fresco
Looking ahead, the Nova Fresco team has Australian kiwis on their radar. "We see an opportunity with Australian origins as they offer good quality, Brix levels, competitive pricing, and a much shorter transit time to India than Chilean fruit, which could improve freshness on arrival," Rathod explains. "The market outlook for the coming months remains positive with Controlled Atmosphere (CA) kiwi shipments set to arrive soon and expected to improve quality consistency," he concludes.
For more information:
Yogesh Rathod
Nova Fresco
Tel: +91 93 20 123 143
Email: [email protected]
www.frescogroup.co.in
