Sufficient Stock of Dry Fruits in India to Meet Lagnasara Season Demand Despite Afghan Import Disruption

30-Apr-2025 06:17 PM

New Delhi. Amid rising geopolitical tensions and a war-like situation between India and Pakistan, the import of dry fruits from Afghanistan via the land route through Pakistan has come under pressure. Sources report that around 30 trucks loaded with dry fruits are currently stranded at the Wagah-Attari border, unable to enter India due to the closure of the land crossing. Transporters are reportedly in talks with Pakistani authorities to seek permission to move forward.

Despite this disruption, trade analysts remain confident that there will be no shortage of dry fruits during the upcoming Lagnasara and wedding season, as sufficient stock is available in the country. Imports via sea and air routes continue from other international sources.

While direct shipments from Afghanistan are facing delays, importers are expected to reroute consignments via Dubai, albeit at a higher cost and longer delivery time.

The land route from Afghanistan to India typically takes 3–4 days, but the alternative route through Iran and Dubai could take up to a month, which would increase both transit time and expenses. This extended route may also impact the freshness and quality of sensitive dry fruits like figs and raisins.

Although domestic demand was weak in April, it is expected to rise significantly from May with the start of the wedding season in North India, followed by festive demand from August onward.

While no immediate price hikes are expected, there is a possibility of higher prices during festive months due to the costlier logistics and delayed shipments.

India annually imports around 2,000 tonnes of dry fruits from Afghanistan, including Mamra almonds, pistachios, figs, and black and green raisins. Continued disruptions may influence the availability and price of these high-demand items in the months ahead.