Apple stocks roll out of CA stores as markets stabilise
Srinagar, Feb 21: A significant portion of apple stocks stored in Controlled Atmosphere (CA) facilities across Kashmir has begun moving to wholesale markets outside Jammu and Kashmir, indicating steady demand and stable price trends during the ongoing marketing season.
According to Izhan Javed, spokesperson for the Jammu Kashmir Fruits & Vegetables Processing & Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA), nearly 30–35 percent of the produce stored in CA facilities has already been dispatched to markets across the country.
“Traders started releasing stocks gradually once market conditions stabilised. The movement has gained momentum in recent weeks,” Javed said.
Growers and traders say prices have remained firm, offering relief after last year’s weather-related setbacks. The widely cultivated Delicious variety is currently fetching between ₹110 and ₹120 per kilogram in wholesale markets, while Kullu Delicious is selling at ₹130 to ₹135 per kilogram, traders confirmed.
Industry estimates suggest that around five lakh metric tonnes of apples were stored in nearly 50 to 60 CA storage units across Kashmir during the previous harvest season. Controlled Atmosphere storage enables apples to be preserved for extended periods under regulated temperature and oxygen levels, allowing growers to avoid distress sales and market their produce strategically during lean supply periods.
Farmers opted for higher storage volumes this season after facing multiple challenges during harvest. Incessant rainfall damaged orchards and disrupted harvesting operations, while repeated closures of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway hampered transportation. Additionally, a sharp decline in prices during peak arrival season compelled many growers to divert their produce to CA facilities.
Traders said the calibrated and phased release of stocks has helped maintain price stability and prevent oversupply in markets.
“The supply is being regulated carefully to avoid sudden price crashes,” said a fruit dealer from Shopian district in south Kashmir.
Tariq Ahmad, another trader, said the prevailing prices are helping growers recover storage and transportation costs while ensuring reasonable returns. He added that if demand continues at the current pace, price levels are expected to remain stable during the holy month of Ramadhan.
Growers remain cautiously optimistic as demand persists from major consumption centres such as Delhi, Ahmedabad and Kolkata.
Industry representatives emphasised that efficient logistics, robust storage infrastructure and sustained market demand will be crucial in ensuring better returns for apple growers as the remaining stocks are gradually released in the coming months.
