India has recorded a total grape export volume of 181,396 tons up to April 15th, with 131,421 tons directed towards the U.S. and the European Union, and the remaining 50,195 tons to various other countries. Typically, exports to the U.S. and the European Union range from 90,000 to 100,000 tons. This year, despite the Israel-Palestine conflict necessitating a detour through Africa for shipments - thereby increasing transportation costs - exports to these regions have exceeded the average by 31,000 tons. The primary destination for these shipments is the Netherlands, which serves as a hub for further distribution across Europe.
Conversely, exports to Canada have diminished, with only 15 containers shipped compared to the usual range of 60 to 70. The export pricing for grapes has seen fluctuations, starting from Rs.40 to Rs.50 per kg, escalating to Rs. 60 to Rs. 65 per kg mid-season, and peaking at Rs.90 to 110 per kg for premium quality towards the season's end. Despite the potential for high yields in regions such as Solapur and Narayangaon, unseasonal rains have compromised grape quality. Shivaji Pawar, President of the Maharashtra State Grape Growers' Association, noted that the season's challenges, including the closure of Red Sea traffic and unseasonal rains, have impacted exports. However, he remains optimistic about achieving record export levels with uninterrupted transportation.
[ Rs. 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com