The grape season in India has kicked off. Samir Singh, business promoter for Indian grape exporter Mersel Foods, states that the current grapes that are being exported are mostly not destined for the European market. “The grape season in India has already started, with limited volume available in Satana, Maharashtra, since the beginning of November. White, Red and black seedless varieties are available, but these early grapes generally do not conform to European MRL requirements. So, most of the exports from this region are done to non-European countries. We have commenced packing operations from this week; the speed will be rather slow until the end of December.”
Although there have been floods in various parts of India, the weather has not had a significant negative impact on the grape cultivation, Singh says: “The weather conditions this year have been quite favorable for the cultivation of grapes. Moderate rainfall in the region during the monsoon season has not had a damaging impact on the crop. The weather forecast looks quite favorable and we expect a surplus volume over the last year’s production, unless unseasonal rains play its role. The quality of fruits is expected to be very good.”
The market is currently low on supply when it comes to grapes, which means prices are good according to Singh. “Owing to the undersupply situation prevailing in Europe and Russia currently, the demand and market prices are quite good. The prices for grapes in India are expected to be, by and large, at the same level like last year. This season, a fair volume of grapes will be available for harvesting in January, whereas, February and March will see plenty of grapes; There will be comparatively less volume of grapes available in April, as the season will end around ten days earlier.”
It will be a while longer before the exports to Europe really get going, Singh explains: “Most of our export volume goes to Europe. We mainly work with Thompson and Crimson varieties. Starting from week 4, our fruits will be available in Rotterdam for distribution in Europe. We hope to see a good demand and firm prices throughout the season.”
For more information:
Mr. Samir Singh
Mersel Foods Pvt. Ltd.
Tel: +371 29 516 075
Email: [email protected]
www.merselfoods.com