The ongoing tensions involving Iran and the United States have begun affecting Bengaluru’s fruit trade, with imported fruit supplies disrupted and prices rising across city markets.
Fruit traders said imports from Iran, including apples, kiwis, cherries and blueberries, have been halted for more than a month. As a result, wholesalers in Bengaluru are now sourcing produce from alternate markets such as Egypt and Washington.
However, the revised supply chain has increased transit time and freight costs.
Shipping delays and higher costs
Traders said fruit shipments are now taking nearly 20 extra days due to longer routes passing through Japan and other transit hubs.
The shipping cost for a single fruit box has reportedly doubled from $2 to $4, pushing up wholesale and retail prices in Bengaluru.
Current retail prices in some markets were reported as:
- Foreign apples: ₹100 to ₹220 per kg
- Pomegranates: ₹300+ per kg
- Oranges: ₹200 per kg
- Blueberries: ₹250 per box
Traders under pressure
Merchants also said they are still awaiting refunds for advance payments made to Iranian suppliers before shipments stopped.
Mohammed Sibgatulla said traders who paid large sums in advance are facing serious financial strain.
He added that new apple consignments from Chile may take over 45 days to arrive, and after inspections and movement through supply channels, could reach Bengaluru only after 65 to 70 days.
More price rise feared
Market players warned that if the geopolitical conflict worsens further, freight rates may increase again, leading to even higher fruit prices for consumers.
For Bengaluru households, imported fruits may soon become a more expensive luxury than usual.