Around 300 containers, carrying 3,900 tonnes and bound for Dubai, were halted due to uncertainty in air and sea routes amid the geopolitical situation involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The escalation of conflict in West Asia has halted Maharashtra’s grape exports to Gulf countries, leaving thousands of tonnes of consignments stranded at the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Navi Mumbai and raising concerns about a supply glut in the domestic market.
According to traders and industry representatives, about 300 containers of grapes—roughly 3,900 tonnes—had already been loaded for export to Gulf markets via Dubai when shipments were disrupted by the deteriorating geopolitical situation involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
In addition, nearly 700 containers of grapes are currently lying at JNPA and nearby cold storage facilities, awaiting clarity on shipping schedules as air and sea transport routes in parts of West Asia remain uncertain.
Price concern
Exporters said traders had procured grapes from farmers at prices of ₹120 to ₹170 per kilogram, specifically for export markets. If shipments do not resume soon, these consignments may have to be diverted to domestic markets, where prices are significantly lower.
Industry estimates suggest the disruption could affect a much larger volume of produce. According to the Maharashtra Grape Growers Association, around 5,000 to 6,000 tonnes of grapes already lying at ports are at immediate risk, while another 10,000 tonnes of export-quality grapes are still in vineyards awaiting shipment.
In total, up to 16,000 tonnes of grapes from Maharashtra could be affected if exports to Gulf countries remain suspended.
Ramadan Season
The Gulf region is one of the key destinations for Maharashtra grapes, especially during Ramadan, when exporters ship large quantities of fresh fruit to markets in Dubai and other Gulf cities. With shipments stalled, traders fear that export-grade grapes may soon enter domestic markets, increasing supply and putting downward pressure on prices.
Published on March 4, 2026