India's 2025-26 grape season is proving to be one of the most difficult in recent memory, says Shubham Shelar of fresh produce exporter Shelar Exports based in Nashik, Maharashtra. "Many vineyards are experiencing a drastic decline in fruit output, with very sparse crops. Heavy, unseasonal rains during the critical growth stage have severely stressed vineyards in key areas like Nashik and Sangli."
With over 1000 mm of rainfall received during the early months, grape growers are facing what Shelar describes as a thorough test of resilience. "Early rains in mid-May disrupted the flowering stage, which needs plenty of sunlight. This caused crop damage of about 20-30%, with pests like fruit flies making matters worse." He shares that the rains have yet to stop, with ongoing wet weather into October further prolonging the struggle for farmers across the region.
© Shelar Overseas
Shelar predicts a drop in export volumes, which could push prices up by 10-15% at the start of the season in December, with prices stabilizing during the peak season when availability improves. He supplies mainly to European countries such as the Netherlands, Lithuania, Latvia, and Italy, with buyers closely monitoring the situation.
"Our export basket includes Thompson seedless grapes for Europe; Sonaka seedless and Sharad Jumbo black grapes for Southeast Asia; and small quantities of red globe & Crimson grapes to Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia," he explains.
© Shelar Overseas
According to Shelar, varietal innovation is becoming increasingly necessary for India to maintain competitiveness in grape exports. "Globally, countries like South Africa and Chile grow grape varieties with larger berries and longer shelf life. India needs to develop such varieties to compete internationally."
Yet amid the challenges, there is optimism. "Despite the numerous challenges this season has brought, new grape varieties from regional farms offer a ray of hope. "While nature has given us a tough start, endurance and innovation could turn this season into a story of recovery and resilience," Shelar concludes.
For more information:
Shubham Shelar
Shelar Overseas
Tel: +91 89 28 782 517
Email: [email protected]
www.shelaroverseas.com
