#MostImportedFruits

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The Growing Market of Fruits Import in India: Demand, Trends, and Leading Importers

India is known for its rich agricultural heritage and is one of the largest fruit producers in the world, yet its market for fruits import in India continues to thrive. While the country produces a wide range of fruits, the growing demand for exotic varieties and off-season options has led to an increased inflow of imported fruits. In 2024, the Indian fruit import market is forecasted to grow, fueled by consumer tastes, rising health consciousness, and the availability of high-quality produce from other nations. This article explores the fruits imported in India, key players, and the market dynamics driving this trend.

India's Fruit Production Landscape

In the 2023–24 period, India’s total fruit production was projected at 112.62 million metric tons, showing an increase from the previous year's 110.21 million metric tons. Bananas and mangoes are the largest contributors, making up around 31.5% and 19.8% of the total fruit production, respectively. The states leading in fruit production include Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Gujarat.

Despite India’s high production levels, imported fruits have become increasingly popular. The demand for exotic fruits and varieties typically unavailable domestically has led to a notable rise in the volume and diversity of fruits imported in India.

Key Factors Driving Fruits Import in India

India’s rising middle class and urban population have created a growing market for imported fresh fruits, especially those regarded as exotic or nutritious. This shift in consumption patterns has also been influenced by:

Health Consciousness: With increasing awareness of nutrition, people are adding fruits like avocados, cherries, and dragon fruit to their diets.

Global Trade Expansion: India’s trade ties with other countries have made various fruits available year-round.

Demand for Quality: Imported fruits often come with quality standards and consistent appearance, which attract Indian consumers who are looking for high-end products.

Foodservice Sector Growth: Hotels, restaurants, and cafes are adding imported fruits to their menus, making them accessible to a broader audience.

The Rise of Imported Fruits: Top Varieties

According to recent data, the list of fruits imported in India includes varieties like apples, cherries, dragon fruit, avocado, grapes, kiwifruit, date palms, and bananas. Below are some of the most imported fruits in India, their import values, and top destinations:

1. Apples

As one of the most imported fruits in India, apples are in high demand. In 2023, India imported approximately 359 thousand metric tons of apples from Turkey, Iran, Italy, Poland, and the US. Companies like IG International, NM Fresh, and NGK Trading are among the largest fresh fruit importers in India for apples.

2. Cherries

Driven by their use in healthy diets and beverages, fresh cherries are another popular import. In 2023, India imported around 2.46 million kilograms of cherries worth $11 million. Major sources include Chile, Afghanistan, and Iran, with prominent importers like Fresh Fruit Alliances Pvt. Ltd. and GT Fruit.

3. Dragon Fruit

Though relatively new to the market, dragon fruit has grown in popularity. India’s major suppliers are China, Ukraine, and Singapore, with companies like Freeze O Fresh and JMD Foods leading the imports.

4. Avocados

Avocados, often associated with high nutritional value, are now a staple in many urban Indian households and eateries. India imported approximately 3.93 million kilograms of avocados, mainly from Tanzania, New Zealand, Peru, and Australia. Key importers include DRP Trades, GK Agro Foods, and JMD Foods.

5. Grapes

In 2023, India imported grapes valued at $109 million. Sourced from countries like Afghanistan, China, and Greece, imported grapes come in various colors, adding variety to the Indian fruit market. Companies such as Pisum Food Services, GK Agro Foods, and Suri Agro Fresh are prominent importers.

6. Kiwifruit

Kiwifruit, known for its unique taste and health benefits, has found a steady market in India, with imports totaling 43,270 metric tons in 2023-24. New Zealand, Iran, and Chile are key suppliers, with Vimo Foods Private Limited and Essar Impex among the main importers.

7. Date Palm

A staple in many Indian households, date imports reached 43,270 metric tons in 2023-24. Importers IG International and NM Fresh source dates from the UAE, Iraq, and Iran to meet domestic demand.

8. Bananas

Though widely grown in India, imported bananas cater to niche demands, with imports worth $97.2K from the US, Oman, and UAE. Geewin Exim and Meem Exim are some of the major importers in this segment.

9. Pears and Oranges

Pears and oranges have shown a steady increase in imports, with pears mainly coming from Turkey, Iran, and South Africa and oranges primarily sourced from Egypt, UAE, and South Africa. Importers such as GK Agro Foods and JMD Foods help fulfill demand for these fruits.

Leading HS Codes for Imported Fruits

For those navigating the fruits import in India, understanding HS codes is essential. Below are some important HS codes for commonly imported fruits:

0810 – Fresh fruits other than strawberries, bilberries, and others of the genus Vaccinium.

08104000 – Cranberries, bilberries, and similar berries.

0813 – Dried fruits not included in other categories.

0804 – Dates, figs, pineapples, avocados, mangoes, etc., fresh or dried.

08045020 – Fresh mangoes.

The Economic Impact of Fruits Import in India

In the 2023-24 financial year, India imported fruits worth over 143 billion Indian rupees, a significant jump from previous years. From March 2023 to February 2024, the country registered 114,698 fresh fruit shipments, with a total of 59,300 imports managed by 1,051 importers and 2,581 suppliers. This data reflects the robust and expanding market for imported fruits in India, especially in urban centers.

Major Fruit Importing Countries

Globally, India is a significant player in the fresh fruit market, alongside other top importers like Morocco, France, Turkey, and the Netherlands. In 2023, India led the fruit import market with an import value of approximately USD 267.18 million.

Finding Reliable Fresh Fruit Importers in India

For those looking to enter the Indian fruit market, identifying fresh fruit importers in India is key to success. Importers like IG International, Freeze O Fresh, and JMD Foods have a well-established network and handle large volumes of fresh fruit imports. Platforms like Eximpedia.app provide detailed insights into import data, including product and region-specific information, helping businesses connect with reliable suppliers and buyers.

The Future of Fruits Import in India

The Indian market for imported fruits is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.58% from 2024 to 2029. This growth aligns with a global trend, as the worldwide fruit and vegetable market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 5.0% through 2030.

Conclusion

India’s demand for imported fruits is a testament to changing consumer preferences and the country’s increasing integration into the global trade network. With more Indians adopting exotic fruits into their diets and businesses exploring new ways to cater to this demand, the fruits import in India market is set for continued expansion. For those interested in diving into this lucrative market, platforms like Eximpedia.app offer invaluable resources for navigating the industry, ensuring compliance, and establishing fruitful trade relationships.

India's fruit market not only satisfies local demand but also showcases the country's openness to global agricultural diversity, making it an exciting space for both importers and consumers alike.