Heavy rains hit apple crops in Himachal and J&K, reducing local supply.
Wagah border closure pushed Afghan apple imports via Iran by sea.
Demand and prices rose in Pune; Afghan apples sell for ₹900–₹1,100 per 10 kg.
Pune, 29 October 2025: Heavy rainfall has disrupted apple production in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, causing a drop in domestic supply. As a result, demand for imported Afghan apples has risen sharply in Indian markets, including Pune.
After the Pahalgam terror attack, the Wagah border was closed, halting the regular land route for Afghan apple imports through Pakistan. To maintain supply, traders have begun importing the fruit through Iran by sea. Though this route has increased transportation costs, reduced handling has helped preserve the apples’ freshness and quality.
At Pune’s Gultekdi Market Yard, wholesalers report that Afghan apples are arriving in good condition and in large quantities. Prices currently range between ₹900 and ₹1,100 per 10 kilograms in the wholesale market, while retail prices stand between ₹160 and ₹320 per kilogram.
Importers say Pune buyers are preferring these naturally ripened, unwaxed Afghan apples for their superior taste and texture. According to Gurudutt Impact’s director, Shivjit Zhende, the new route has added expenses, but the improved quality and freshness have made the fruit more appealing to customers.
The apples travel from Afghanistan to Iran by road, and from there, are shipped to Mumbai before reaching Pune and other major Indian cities. Despite the higher cost, traders expect demand for Afghan apples to remain strong throughout the season as Indian supplies remain limited.
