Although grape exports from Nashik, India's main production area, remained stable during the 2024–25 season, prolonged unseasonal rains since May have caused widespread orchard damage. Nashik, known as the "grape capital," has seen perennial fruit crops on 60,000 hectares affected, with about 45,000 hectares of vineyards severely damaged, according to preliminary estimates. Farmers are reporting major losses, and there have been calls for government assistance following two reported farmer suicides.
According to Agriculture Department data, total exports from the Nashik district remained stable at 157,000 tons, matching last season's volume. Exports to European markets declined by 6.8%, dropping from 118,000 tons to 110,000 tons, while exports to other destinations rose by 20.5%, from 39,000 to 47,000 tons. Farmers received between US$0.90 and US$1.30 per kilogram for export-quality grapes, compared with US$0.65 to US$1.00 last year. Shipments were made to markets including Europe, the UAE, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Singapore, Oman, China, and Sri Lanka.
While the 2024–25 season stabilised, growers fear the upcoming 2025–26 cycle could be severely affected. Continuous rainfall since May has disrupted flowering and fruit set due to insufficient sunlight. Many vineyards show no visible bunches, raising concerns about the next export season. October is typically the time for pruning and cover management, but heavy rain and humidity have made these activities difficult, threatening production for 2026 exports.
Agricultural experts estimate a 40 to 50% production decline due to orchard damage and increased fungal disease risk. In several areas, growers have ploughed up vineyards valued at over US$4,800 to US$6,000 per hectare after the loss of fruit-bearing potential. The Nashik grape industry faces an estimated loss of around US$420 million.
Growers note that while the heavy rains of October 2024 delayed the start of the season, production eventually recovered. In contrast, this year's prolonged rainfall has led to what they describe as a "systemic failure" of the crop cycle. "The October rains of 2025 not only delayed the crop, but they also destroyed it. Last year it was delayed; this year it is a systemic failure of the crop cycle. There is no return on orchards where farmers spent lakhs," said a spokesperson for the Nashik Grape Growers' Association.
Farmers are demanding loan waivers and compensation to offset the losses. The 2026 export season now depends on recovery efforts and government intervention, as growers warn that the issue has become one of survival rather than export competition.
Source: The Free Press Journal
