In India, the export of bananas has led to a noticeable decrease in local market supply, with available quantities dropping to 50-60 tons daily in principal supply areas such as Solapur, Phaltan, Akluj, Natepute, and Baramati, from a previous range of 80-100 tons. This reduction is attributed to a surge in exports and the ongoing Shravan month, which has traditionally seen an increase in demand for bananas. Consequently, wholesale prices have seen an upward trend, with raw bananas now priced at ₹15 to 18 per kilogram, and ripe bananas, sold in 18-kilogram crates, reaching ₹400 to 500.
The decrease in supply from key regions, especially Jalgaon, has led to a spike in retail prices, now ranging between ₹50 and 80 per dozen, a significant rise from the usual rate for high-quality bananas. Despite the high demand, the supply shortfall is expected to continue, driven by the export market's preference for premium quality bananas, leaving lower-grade produce for the local markets.
However, these bananas are still fetching higher prices due to the sustained demand. In the Pune district, despite being a production area, local varieties are facing reduced demand compared to those sourced from other districts, with bananas from Baramati and Junnar not meeting the quality of those from Solapur and Jalgaon.
[ ₹100 = €1.10 ]
Source: thebridgechronicle.com