Despite a rise in price by Rs 30 to Rs 40 per kg, the demand for imported fruits has increased by at least 10 percent this year. The price of imported fruits has increased in the international market due to their increased consumption, making them expensive in the domestic market as well.
As most of the fruits are imported from countries like Thailand and China, the increase in currency valuation has also contributed to making them expensive in the local market.
According to Baphal Gurung of Bhat Bhateni Supermarket and Departmental Store at Naxal, the price of imported fruits has gone up this year in comparison to last year because the price has increased in the international market with the increase in tax rates and transportation charges.
However, imported fruit and vegetables seem to be doing a brisk business in department stores around town.
The rise in the living standard of people and the higher nutritional value of imported fruits have caused the demand for imported fruits to grow.
Anitm Ranjit, marketing and branding manager of Big Mart at City Centre, says both locals and foreigners buy imported fruits. “Expatriates, five-star hotels and well-off Nepali families are the major buyers. Also, those Nepalis who have already tasted these imported fruits while abroad are adding to the popularity of imported fruits among local people."
It must be because of the rapid sales and the overwhelming responses these imported fruits and vegetables are getting from buyers that department stores seem to have a tough time replenishing the stocks. “We have to replenish the stocks of fruit and vegetables thrice a day because of their rapid sales,” Ranjit said.
Most of the imported fruits come from Thailand while some are from China, India, Japan and Pakistan. Thailand supplies Giant Bangkok guava, cherries, red grapes, kiwi, Bangkok Litchi also known as ram bhutan, and red apple whereas Fuji apple is being imported from Australia and pears come from China. Sweet melon comes from India whereas there is Japanese melon also in the market. Mango comes from Pakistan in off-season.
Different imported fruits cost from Rs 55 to Rs 400 per kg. Green pears are available for Rs 165 per kg, Pakistani apple is available at Rs 350 per kg, watermelon is available at Rs 100 per kg, Chinese apple is available at Rs 155 per kg and Mango is available at Rs 365 a kg.
Price chart
Imported fruits Price per kg
Green pear Rs 165
Pakistani apple Rs 350
watermelon Rs 100
Chinese apple Rs 155
Mango Rs 365
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