Raisin (Kishmish) Import in India: Trade, Pricing, and Sourcing Guide

India is the second-largest raisin producer in the world. Every year, domestic farms harvest 55,000 to 65,000 metric tons. Maharashtra produces over 75% of this total. These farms mostly use Thompson Seedless, Sonaka, and Tas-A-Ganesh grapes. Even with this massive production, India exports a large amount. In 2023-24, India sold 42 million kilograms of raisins abroad. This makes India the ninth-largest global exporter.

So, why does India import raisins? The main issue is not the total volume. The issue is the variety. Local farms focus heavily on standard Thompson Seedless grapes. However, the Indian market wants different types of raisins. Buyers demand Afghan green raisins, black seedless types, and Turkish golden sultanas. Local farms simply cannot grow these premium varieties. This specific need drives India's raisin import pipeline. It is not just a lack of basic supply.

You can see this clearly in the trade data. Every year, raisin import India volumes range from 20,000 to 30,000 metric tons. Afghanistan plays a huge role in filling this demand. In 2024-25, its total exports to India reached $627 million. Raisins were a major product, along with dried figs, saffron, cumin, and almonds. This steady supply is a core part of the raisin trade in India.

Common Types of Imported Kishmish

Importers deal with many different raisin types. Each type serves a very specific need in retail or food manufacturing.

The Important Afghan Raisin Trade Route

Let us talk specifically about kishmish import from India. The Afghan raisin import route is the heart of the Indian dry fruit market. In the past, over 70% of special imported raisins came from Afghanistan. These goods mostly arrive from farms in Kandahar and Herat. Buyers love these raisins for several reasons. The farmers use organic growing methods. The raisins also offer a unique, natural sun-dried flavor.

Supply Chain Risks: Land Routes vs. Chabahar Port

The Attari-Wagah land route is the main path for Afghan dry fruits to enter India. During busy times, 40 to 50 trucks pass through this border every day. Relying on just one road is very risky. If this road faces political or weather issues, the supply chain breaks. Raisins become hard to find in local wholesale markets. This sudden shortage quickly drives prices up.

Importers must plan carefully to avoid these problems. Here are common steps to stay safe:

• Keep a 60 to 90-day safety stock.
• Build this stock before the festival season (September–October).
• Look into other supply options as a backup plan.
• Buying from Iran and Turkey is a smart, safe choice.
• Many experienced dry fruit buyers now use this exact method.

The Chabahar Port in Iran is a great new option. It offers a sea route for Afghan farm goods. In 2024, India signed a 10-year deal to manage a terminal there. Afghanistan also wants to use this port more. This helps everyone avoid relying only on the land route.

For buyers, Chabahar ensures a steady supply. It works very well if the land route is blocked. Right now, shipping via Chabahar takes more time. It also costs more money than driving trucks directly. However, the port is growing and improving. By 2026, these extra costs should drop. This progress will make Chabahar raisin import a smart and regular choice.

Understanding Wholesale Kishmish Prices

Many factors change the wholesale kishmish price per kg. Global crop sizes matter a lot. Shipping routes play a big part too. Currency changes are also very important. The kishmish wholesale price depends heavily on the US Dollar. This happens because bulk global trades are always paid in USD.

• Standard Grade: Prices usually range from Rs. 150 to Rs. 220 per kg.
• Premium Green (Afghan): These cost much more. Prices range between Rs. 300 to Rs. 450 per kg.
• Black Seedless: Prices sit between Rs. 250 to Rs. 350 per kg. The final cost depends on how well they are cleaned and sorted.

Customs Duties, HS Codes, and Rules

You need the correct tax code to import standard raisins. The exact 8-digit ITC-HS code is 08062010. The shorter 6-digit code (080620) is not enough. Indian customs papers demand the full 8-digit HS code for raisins. You need this to calculate your taxes correctly. It is also completely necessary to claim your SAFTA benefits.

You must follow strict rules to get the SAFTA zero-duty perk:

• The goods must truly come from Afghanistan.
• Moving goods through other countries without clear proof ruins the benefit.
• You must hold a valid SAFTA Certificate of Origin.
• This paper needs the Afghan exporter's stamp and state approval.
• Always check the government website first. Make sure raisins are not on the restricted list.
• If you miss even one document, you will pay the full 100% tax.
• This simple mistake destroys your SAFTA raisin duty savings entirely.

How to Find Good Raisin Suppliers in India

Finding reliable raisin suppliers India takes real effort. The bulk market often struggles with poor quality goods. You must check your partners very carefully.

• Ask for Health Papers: Always get inspection papers before the goods ship. This ensures a safe raisin import process in India.
• Check Moisture Levels: Bulk raisins should have 15% to 18% moisture. This level stops mold from growing during travel.
• Look for FSSAI License: Your local partner must have a valid FSSAI central license. This document legally permits them to import food.