For The First Time Ever, German Apples To Be Sold In India; To Arrive In Five Weeks’ Time

IG International will soon be importing ‘Jonagold’, a German-origin apple from a German company called Veos, reports Business Line.

“Apples from Germany were not allowed to be imported in India till now. The protocols are discussed between the countries, and it takes a minimum of two years to apply and execute the same. Both the Indian and German embassies worked towards granting this,” Tarun Arora Director, Finance and Operations, IG International Pvt. Ltd, said.

IG International will soon be importing 1,000 tonnes for a start. Though Jonagold is the most common variety among imported apples, its origin is German. They will be priced at Rs.135 per kg and will arrive in five weeks.

The company’s portfolio, which comprises 65 per cent of apples, has seen organised growth of 10-15 per cent yearly for the company.

One of the challenges that the fruit import industry is facing is the shortage of cold chains, which is compounded by the long summers in India. Hence, IG international is planning to invest ₹40 crore in cold chains, as well as ₹10 crore in logistics.