French apple grower-shipper Blue Whale says the time has come for it to look more closely at the Indian market.
“Over the next few years, we will be more involved in India,” Blue Whale export manager Marc Peyres told Fruitnet.
“The market is becoming more structured in terms of importers and logistics,” he explained. “And consumers now want different varieties and are willing to pay for them.”
Traditionally, India has been a complicated market for French apples, since it is a huge producer in its own right, Peyres said.
“During August to December the market is full of local apples, and when there have been periods of greater demand, the market has traditionally turned to red American varieties.
“But now things are changing. Consumers want different varieties. Niches are developing that could work with our apples. Over the next few years, we will be able to work on India,” he said.
Peyres said Blue Whale’s new Gala clones, as well as its robust, sweet Joya variety could really suit the Indian market.
“We have waited where India is concerned, but now it’s time to get involved,” said Peyres.
