India’s export of grapes are next only to mangoes. The world production of grapes is estimated at 6 million metric tonnes out of India accounts for 0.5 million tonnes. The world trade in grapes stands at 1.5 million metric tonnes valued at $ 1454 million. There has been an increase in exports of grapes in the last three years. The credit goes to the Maharashtra Grape Growers Association who are gearing up to meet the export requirement by increasing the supply base for quality grapes. There exists a large demand in the international market which India should tap. In India, 90 percent of the production is of table variety. Indian yields are the highest in the world as no control is necessary over sugar contents of grapes. During July and December, the average monthly imports are around 30,500 MT. However, during Janaury – April, they fall to less than around 20,500 MT. |
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