Nashik: The export of early harvest table grapes has begun from Nashik, the largest producer in India. By Thursday, about 106 containers (approximately 1600mt) have been exported to Russia, Dubai, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Exports to European markets will begin in January and will continue till April 10, according to Jagannath Khapare, president of Grape Exporters Association of India (GEAI).
Nashik’s grapes are in demand in the United Kingdom and European countries due their perfect blend of medium brix (sugar) content, berry size and colour. In European markets, the round berry with medium sweetness is preferred while in South East Asian countries including India, the elongated sweet berry is a delicacy. Maharashtra Drakshya Bagiatdar Sangh (MDBS) Nashik division president Manikrao Patil said that the grape position was very positive and exports would be good. When asked about the gradual chill spreading in Nashik, Mr Patil said that the cold was not much and would not affect the grape berry. “Now growers from Satana tehsil have begun exporting and Chandwad tehsil are following. The major tehsils of Niphad and Dindori would begin exporting from January 15,” he stated.
