Srinagar, April 9, 2025 — Kashmir’s apple orchards are buzzing with optimism as the region’s prized fruit makes a remarkable leap from local markets to international shelves. With Pulwama and Shopian at the forefront, this season is shaping up to be a game-changer for growers, marked by surging global demand, better prices, and an expanding reach that’s putting the Valley’s apples on the world map.
Kashmir, long celebrated for its crisp, flavourful apples, is witnessing a fruitful resurgence. Orchardists in Pulwama and Shopian, two of the region’s apple-growing powerhouses, report a significant uptick in demand, both within India and overseas. Over 60% of Controlled Atmosphere storage units in these districts have already been cleared, a sign of brisk sales and early stock releases driven by favorable market conditions.
“We’re seeing prices that make all the hard work worthwhile,” said Mehraj Ahmad, an apple grower from Shopian. Standard 10-kg boxes are fetching Rs 1,200, while premium 16-kg boxes are selling for Rs 1,500 or more, excluding cold storage costs. “The demand is strong, and it’s encouraging us to sell earlier than usual,” he added. This optimism echoes across the region, where growers are reaping the rewards of a promising season after years of challenges like erratic weather and sluggish markets.
The global reach of Kashmir’s apples is a key highlight this year. Exports to markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and beyond are gaining momentum, bolstered by the fruit’s reputation for quality and taste. Industry experts attribute this success to improved storage techniques, such as CA units, which preserve freshness and allow growers to meet demand year-round. “Kashmir apples are not just a local treasure anymore; they’re becoming a global brand,” said a horticulture official based in Srinagar.
Pulwama and Shopian, home to sprawling orchards and cutting-edge storage facilities, are leading the charge. By October 2024, cold storage units in these districts were packed to capacity as growers stockpiled their harvest, banking on better prices. Now, with demand soaring, those bets are paying off. The Valley’s apple industry, which supports millions of livelihoods, produces over 20 lakh metric tonnes annually, with occasional peaks reaching 25 lakh tonnes. Despite a reported 10-15% dip in yield this year due to unfavourable weather, the robust demand is offsetting losses and boosting grower morale. “Kashmir’s apples are thriving again, and it’s a matter of pride for the entire region,” said Mohammad Ashraf Wani, president of Fruit Mandi Shopian.
As the season progresses, the focus remains on sustaining this momentum. With Pulwama and Shopian setting the pace, Kashmir’s apples are not just feeding markets—they’re carrying the Valley’s legacy far beyond its orchards, proving that this iconic fruit is truly ripe for the world stage.