The Indian apple market is currently undergoing an atypical season marked by strong domestic supply and a notable drop in imports from Turkey. While local production, especially from Kashmir, remains robust, shifting dynamics in international trade are beginning to influence availability and pricing, says Prashant Gidwani, director of fresh fruit importer Fresh Fruit Alliances Pvt. Ltd.
At present, domestic apples dominate the Indian market, Gidwani explains. "Harvests from Kashmir have been substantial, resulting in wide distribution across the country. However, this situation is expected to change in the coming weeks, as large volumes of domestic apples are moved into cold storage. This seasonal shift is expected to tighten immediate supply and create opportunities for importers to re-enter the market."
© Fresh Fruit Alliances Pvt. Ltd.
According to Gidwani, one of the most significant changes this season is the sharp reduction in Turkish apple exports: "Turkey is historically one of India's key suppliers due to competitive pricing and consistent quality. The country has reported a 60% drop in production this year, due to the weather conditions. Export volumes are expected to decline by as much as 80% compared to last year. The even larger decrease in exports is primarily attributed to stronger domestic demand within Turkey, limiting the volumes available for export."
In response to the lower Turkish supply, importers are turning to other supplying countries to meet the demand in India, Gidwani states. "Iran and Poland are among the most active in filling the current shortfall, both benefiting from established trade links with India and favorable logistics. The United States, Italy, France, and Serbia have also increased their apple shipments to the Indian market in recent months. While these suppliers are contributing to overall availability, there is industry concern about whether they can match the consistency and price points that Turkish apples typically offer."
Gidwani doesn't think the current season will result in a permanent decrease of Turkish apple imports: "Despite the current situation, Turkish apples are expected to retain their market position in India over the long term. Industry stakeholders anticipate that once Turkish production returns to normal, demand from Indian importers and retailers will resume, given the established preference among consumers for Turkish varieties."
Demand for apples in India is as strong as ever, Gidwani emphasizes. "Meanwhile, broader consumption patterns in India continue to trend upward. The demand for imported fruits, including apples, is being driven by economic stability, rising disposable incomes, and a growing focus on health and nutrition, particularly among younger consumers and the urban middle class. This shift is reflected in increased shelf space and retail interest in premium fruit categories."
"In the short term, the market may face tighter import availability, but this is likely to be offset by the strong domestic crop currently in storage. While the season has presented several unexpected developments, stakeholders are monitoring the situation closely to assess how the balance between domestic and imported supply will evolve in the weeks ahead. As an industry veteran, I can confidently say that I have not experienced a market like this in my career. It will be fascinating to see how the market evolves over the coming weeks and how both domestic and imported apples adapt to the shifting demand," Gidwani concludes.
For more information:
Prashant Gidwani
Fresh Fruit Alliances Pvt. Ltd.
Email: [email protected]
www.freshfruitalliances.com
