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Sharp rise in dry fruit prices rise ahead of Diwali
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Thursday, 29 October, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Ashwani Maindola, New Delhi
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Surging geopolitical tensions, adverse weather conditions, and supply chain disruptions have pushed dry fruit prices up by 35 per cent this Diwali season.
According to Shankar Thakkar, national secretary of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), record-high prices are forcing corporate firms to revamp their festive gifting policies.
Trade experts say that import supplies from Iran, Afghanistan, and the Middle East have been hit hard by regional conflicts, while reduced almond yields in globally have further restricted domestic availability.
Thakkar explained that a weaker rupee, higher crude oil prices, and surging shipping freight charges have dramatically raised import costs.
Gunjan Jain, president of the Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India), noted that wholesale prices across major nuts and dried fruits have hit record highs.
Wholesale price hikes (per kilogram) are as follows: Pistachios: Jumped from Rs 900 to Rs 1,800. Almonds rose from Rs 800 to Rs 1,100, dates doubled from Rs 250 to Rs 500, cashews increased from Rs 850 to Rs 1,000 to Rs 900–Rs1,200, walnuts are trading between Rs 1,100 and Rs 1,400. Figs (Anjeer) is ranging between Rs 600 and Rs1,200
Meanwhile, market analysts say that to stay within fixed budgets, companies are reducing gift basket weights and shifting from expensive nuts to healthier, cost-effective seed varieties—such as pumpkin, watermelon, sunflower, and chia seeds.
Demand for seed gifts has grown by nearly 30 per cent compared to last year.
Yogesh Ganatra, president of the Mumbai Mewa Masala Merchant Association, added that corporates are negotiating hard to customise packs around cashew nuts, walnuts, and budget-friendly alternatives.
Despite price pressures, Thakkar expressed optimism about overall festive demand, stating that Diwali shopping enthusiasm remains strong across commercial markets.
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