Banana exports from India have seen a marked lift this month, says Prasad Chavan of India-based Acres EXIM. "Our banana exports are performing very well this quarter, with an increase in demand from our main markets, especially Europe and the Middle East. Export volumes are up by about 15% this October compared to the same month last year."
Chavan traces this positive trend to steady orders and reliable supply even as global market conditions fluctuate. He reflects, "This year, export prices for Indian bananas have been mixed. In some overseas markets, prices have softened a bit, whereas in others, exporters have managed to maintain or improve the levels. Overall, the market is fairly stable, and premium bananas continue to fetch reasonable returns for exporters."
© Acres EXIM
For exporters, diversification is in front of their minds. Chavan explains, "Being dependent on a single importer or market is risky for any exporter. Instead, we focus on reaching multiple destinations and closely monitoring changing requirements. For example, Europe and Japan have particularly high standards for certification, packaging, and logistics. Young consumers in these regions are also concerned with better farming and fair-trade, which means exporters need to adapt to stay competitive."
Chavan highlights India's innovation focus, pointing to research and local efforts supporting the banana sector. "The National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, is trialing new banana hybrids to boost disease resistance and overall quality. Meanwhile, regional programs like Kerala's 'Banana Bank' are promoting genetic diversity and resilience. These domestic initiatives have a direct impact on options available to Indian growers and exporters." He also notes that the major producing regions, like Jalgaon and Solapur in Maharashtra, are benefitting from drip irrigation, which has improved productivity and quality across farms.
© Acres EXIM
Looking to the coming weeks, Chavan concludes. "Exports will remain stable or grow moderately if current demand holds and no major weather or phytosanitary issues arise. India's infrastructure for banana exports is improving, so there is hope that this momentum will continue into the next quarter."
For more information:
Prasad Chavan
ACRES Exim
Tel: +91 78 75 145 854
Email: [email protected]
