INDIA

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

There are no USA Pears in the Indian market now. Indian importers were pleased with the overall arrival quality and sales of USA Pears in the season.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

No challenges have been reported.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

India remains a market for preimum grade pears. US No. 1 is the preferred grade.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

The imported pear market in India is currently dominated by pears from South Africa. Large volume of South African pears is available in fresh fruit markets of the country. Varieties available are Packham Triumph and Rosemarie (Sempre). Banned Shandong Pear from China is also available in large volume in the fresh fruit markets of the country. They are being illegally routed through transshipment points. Packham Pears from Argentina are also available in limited volumes.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

The war situation in Middle East is badly impacting India. There are news of energy shortages. The next few months are critical.

Other Brief Comments:

Trade is anxiously awaiting the formal annoucement of the trade deal between US and India. If USA Pears are able to secure a duty benefit, huige opportunities beckon.