In Guwahati, India, consumers are experiencing elevated apple prices, currently at $4.20 per kg, nearly double the previous year's cost. This increase is driven by persistent supply issues and rising import expenses.
Manisha Bora, a student, shared, "Two days ago, on June 14, I went to the market to buy apples. I was shocked when the vendor told me the price for one kilo. I went back home without buying anything."
According to Mukesh Kumar from the GMC market area, "The hike is largely due to steep global prices, especially for Turkish Red Delicious apples." He added, "Moreover, one kg of New Zealand apples will cost you around $3.60."
Pappu Sah explained, "Imported varieties of apples have to be stored at specific temperatures. Therefore, it's obvious that the substantial price hikes in global markets are directly pushing up costs for local vendors."
A vendor at Ganeshguri commented, "While domestic apples from Kashmir and Himachal are available, they remain in short supply. Demand consistently surpasses local production capacity, and hence, prices tend to rise."
Harsh Agarwal, a regular buyer, revealed, "I have been advised by my doctor to eat fruits and follow a healthy diet. Last week, I went to the Fancy Bazaar market to buy apples. To my utter dismay, the vendor said one kilo would cost me $3.50." He added, "Prices are scorching, and this puts a heavy strain on a common man's pocket."
A vendor at Beltola Market noted, "Transportation costs from other states, along with steep import duties and logistical surcharges, are adding to our costs and impacting the final price consumers must pay."
Retailers in Paltan Bazaar and Fancy Bazaar report that apple prices show limited signs of dropping. Although demand typically declines during warmer months, supply issues keep prices high.
A local buyer observed, "Whenever I go to the market, I prefer smaller apple sizes and look for deals on local produce to cut extra costs. Last week, I bought one kilo of Kinnaur apples from Paltan Bazaar for $2.75, while others were paying $3.10."
A wholesaler in the Fancy Bazaar market stated that the suspension of imports from Turkey has exacerbated price pressures. Due to geopolitical issues, Indian restrictions on Turkish imports, and costly New Zealand imports, price conditions have worsened.
Until structural issues in fruit supply, imports, and domestic production are addressed, apple affordability remains a concern, symbolizing broader challenges in food accessibility.
Source: Gplus
