The Fresh India Show 2025, held June 13-14 at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre in Navi Mumbai, underscored India's pivotal role in the global fresh produce market. Mr. S Jafar Naqvi, Chief Coordinator of Media Today Group, New Delhi, opened the two-day event, highlighting India's status as the second-largest importer of fresh fruit, with imports valued at USD 1.74 billion in 2023-24. Discussions emphasized the influence of 300 million young, aspirational, and digitally connected consumers, fueling demand through trends like snackification, mid-meal snacking, and a preference for visually appealing, health-conscious food choices.
Surging imports and shifting consumer trends
The expo outlined key projections for India's fruit imports by 2030, presented by Mr. Sumit Saran, Director of SS Associates. Apple imports are expected to reach 850,000 MT, currently led by Iran, Turkey, and Afghanistan, while citrus imports are forecasted at 250,000 MT, with Egypt and South Africa as key suppliers, Egypt benefiting from a cost advantage in orange exports. Southern Hemisphere producers were urged to tap India's growing citrus market. Avocado imports are projected to hit 50,000 MT within five years, with Andhra Pradesh surpassing Maharashtra and NCR as the top consumer, according to Mr. Ajay TG, GM of Westfalia Fruit. This growth is driven by collaborative marketing promotions between retailers, producers, and the World Avocado Organization, featuring value-added avocado-inspired menu items like avocado sev puri and avocado paneer tikka. Demand for Chinese grapes is rising, while California grapes decline, and Chile dominates cherry imports, arriving in September-October. Domestic blueberry production is expanding, with a focus on consistent quality.
Enhancing quality and export competitiveness
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), alongside Horticulture Boards and state agricultural departments, showcased initiatives to address quality and shelf-life challenges through schemes like the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). These efforts focus on improved packaging and sea route protocols, modernized packing houses, and efficient cold-chain logistics. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are developing state-specific clusters for export-oriented fruits, including pineapples, lychees, lemons, sapotas, passionfruit, jackfruit, cherries, and mangoes, prioritizing quality consistency. A decade of progress has advanced food safety, sustainability, and product traceability, bolstering India's global trade position.
In its 7th edition, Fresh India Show 2025 spotlighted India's soaring fresh fruit imports and export prospects, opening new opportunities for global and local stakeholders.