Banana exports from India are showing signs of recovery as the export window nears, says Amir Karimi of fresh produce exporter Faina Universal Co. "Although not yet at peak levels, exports remain steady with shipments continuing to the Middle East, including established deliveries to Jordan." Karimi is optimistic about expanding into new neighboring markets, currently dominated by Ecuadorian and Philippine bananas, by focusing on consistent quality and supply.
© Faina Universal Co.
Karimi notes that production volumes are stable, but improving export-quality bananas remains a priority. "Production has never been an issue; it's about meeting export market standards," he explains, adding that Faina Universal is supporting farmers through agronomist seminars, pesticide supply, and efforts to deliver residue-free bananas to the EU market. Karimi mentions, "Farmers are also experimenting with weather-resistant varieties and improved techniques through government cluster programs and tissue-culture planting," highlighting partnerships with breeders from Ecuador and the Philippines to introduce new plantain varieties.
However, weather-related challenges persist. Heavy rains across Maharashtra in August and September disrupted logistics from farms to packhouses, damaging crops and delaying transport, Karimi reports. "Torrential rains have damaged farmland and disrupted farm-to-packhouse transport, resulting in reduced availability, increased packhouse rejection rates, and a spike in prices."
© Faina Universal Co.
Karimi highlights that demand remains strong from Iraq and Jordan, largely driven by high spot prices for Latin American bananas, which have spurred interest in Indian supplies. "There are potential orders from Iran, while Oman's oversupply of Indian bananas last month has stabilized. For now, Indian suppliers need better packaging and shelf-life improvements, even though our bananas are favored for taste."
Looking ahead, Karimi expects export volumes to rebound. "Demand typically rises from October, but the season performance will depend on crop recovery, global shipping, and buyer price sensitivity," he concludes.
For more information:
Amir Karimi
Faina Universal Co.
Tel:+91 93 20 005 152
Email: [email protected]
www.fainauniversal.com
Pawan Singh
Faina Universal Co.
Tel: +91 90 22 206 654
Email: [email protected]
www.fainauniversal.com