India is a major producer of oranges, yet imports continue to play a vital role in meeting off-season and premium demand, says Suresh Ramakrishnan, CEO of Tamil Nadu-based fresh produce importer Swaanush Fruit Oasis Pvt. Ltd.
"The import volumes from Egypt and South Africa were steady this season, especially filling seasonal gaps when domestic oranges are unavailable," Ramakrishnan explains, highlighting that while Egypt's orange quality remains stable, volumes were lower and prices more volatile than last year. On the other hand, "Supplies from South Africa, particularly Valencia and Midnight varieties, improved this season."
© Swaanush Fruit Oasis Pvt. Ltd.
According to Ramakrishnan, a key importing challenge for Swaanush Group is that overseas exporters prioritize European and Gulf markets. "India typically becomes an alternate market when demand in these regions slows, impacting the volume and pricing dynamics domestically."
On the domestic front, Ramakrishnan cautions that too much import volume without matching demand causes oversupply and price crashes. "The market still needs discipline in volume control and sensitivity towards demand trends." He further shares that prevailing heavy rainfall in metro areas impacted consumer demand. "The rainy season lowers orange consumption generally as buyers tend to avoid citrus during colder, wet weather."
© Swaanush Fruit Oasis Pvt. Ltd.
With domestic Nagpur oranges gradually increasing in availability from mid-September, Ramakrishnan mentions their arrival will reduce demand for imported fruit. "Domestic arrivals are expected to create pricing competition, especially in mass-market retail channels. While imports will continue to appeal to premium urban retail, the bulk demand will shift to domestic produce."
Though India produces a substantial local crop, imports remain essential to satisfy out-of-season and premium orange demand, says Ramakrishnan, while concluding that the coming weeks will be crucial to determine how domestic arrivals and seasonal conditions influence imported orange volumes, pricing, and profitability.
For more information:
Suresh Ramakrishnan
Swaanush Fruit Oasis Pvt. Ltd.
Tel:+91 98 84 485 174
Email: [email protected]
www.swaanushoasis.com