Washington Apples Finding Way in India

Washington apples are finding a new market in India.

Washington Apple Commission President Todd Fryhover said it’s a market they’ve invested in heavily and will continue to do so.

“India, in 1999, we did 19,000 boxes of fruit. That’s it. First year we ever shipped into India, 19,000. In 2014 we did 5.6 million cartons of red delicious.”

A large population, combined with increasing incomes, there’s a market that could provide a lot of opportunity for growers.

Still, Fryhover said it is not without its challenges.

“The vast majority is sold right along the roadside. You’re driving down the road in Shinai, you’re stopped a stop light, to your immediate left is a fruit stand.”

There are also several trucks that transport apples without proper safety precautions and other apple marketers who will buy cheaper apples but put Washington Apple stickers on them.