Maharashtra has achieved a record high in grape exports this season, exporting a total of 324,441 tons of grapes to 50 countries, including the USA, UK, and various European nations. This marks an increase of 72,000 tons compared to the previous year.
According to the Horticulture Department of the Agriculture Ministry, India has exported approximately 343,982 tons of grapes worth ₹3.461 billion this year, with Maharashtra contributing 96 per cent of this total. Maharashtra’s share amounts to 324,441 tons worth ₹3.395 billion.
Last year, India exported 267,950 tons of grapes worth ₹2.543 billion, with Maharashtra contributing 252,051 tons worth ₹2.487 billion.
Despite disruptions in transportation due to the Israel-Palestine conflict, which required rerouting shipments around Africa and increased costs, the export volume to the USA and Europe reached record levels.
Most Indian shipments arrived at ports in the Netherlands, from where they were distributed throughout Europe by road. This year, Europe received 132,000 tons of grapes, a significant increase from the 83,000 tons exported last year, marking a rise of 49,000 tons.
Typically, India exports an average of 2.5 lakh tonnes of grapes annually. This year, the availability of high-quality exportable grapes was favorable, and despite the increased transportation costs and logistical hurdles, the export figures were exceptionally high.
According to Akshay Sangale, a grape exporter from Niphad, “Without transportation challenges, the grape export this year could have exceeded 3.5 lakh tonnes.”