India's imported apple season is just getting underway, with early shipments of Iran's Royal Gala already on the market and fresh arrivals from other origins expected in the coming weeks, says Shashank Srivastav of fresh produce import-export network Ninja Global. "We're seeing positive early signals on fruit quality, with apple loadings from Poland, Italy, and the USA all on schedule."
According to Srivastav, feedback on Iran's Royal Gala has been very encouraging so far. He further explains, "Around 100 containers of Polish Galas are expected to arrive early November, with Italian Galas expected a week prior, by late October. Mid-December will mark the peak for Red Delicious apple imports from most origins."
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Srivastav shares that Ninja Global's focus will be on Red Delicious and Gala varieties from Poland, Red apples from Italy and the USA, and subsequent Gala imports from Chile, South Africa, and New Zealand. "We've personally visited orchards across Poland, Italy, and the USA and see significant improvements in crop quality compared to last season."
This year, Poland's Gala apple quality is a highlight, says Srivastav. "The harvest pressure jumped from 5 to 5.5 kg last year to over 7kg this season, suggesting better firmness, crisp texture, and shelf life." He adds, "Italian Red apple volumes are reportedly down by about 20% versus last year, though fruit quality remains excellent. U.S. crop conditions are strong, and higher export volumes are expected after several low years."
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Srivastav notes that pricing has firmed up compared to last season. "Polish apples are about $1 higher due to local inflation and currency fluctuations, while U.S. apples have risen by $2 to $3 because of rising labor and regulatory costs linked to stricter immigration policies. Iranian apples are also up roughly by $1 due to costlier logistics."
On the sourcing side, Indian importers anticipated a fall in Turkey's red apple volumes and turned towards Poland and Italy to ensure a steady supply. Srivastav highlights, "Another challenge is a cosmetic frost marking on Polish Gala, although it has a limited impact on internal quality." Since Indian consumers are particular about visual quality, Ninja Global will be sourcing fruit from unaffected zones or lots with minimal cosmetic impact.
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Overall, Srivastav observes a noticeable preference for Iranian apples among Indian buyers, driven by early availability and strong flavor. "Afghanistan's presence is declining due to trade disruptions caused by border closures, while U.S., Polish, and Italian apples remain prioritized."
Looking ahead, Srivastav says that his team will be trialing and promoting a new hybrid red variety from Poland to diversify its portfolio in India. "With Polish loadings underway and Italian shipments due to start mid-month, we see a positive outlook for quality, supply, and demand as we head into peak winter season sales," he concludes.
For more information:
Shashank Srivastav
Ninja Global
Mob: +91 95 32 104 220
Email: [email protected]
www.ninjacart.com
