Diwali dry fruits cost up to 70% more

During Diwali, the cost of nuts and dry fruits has surged up to 70% this festive season, according to trade data. This price surge occurred even with a reduction in goods and services tax (GST) from 12% to 5% in September 2025. Pistachios have witnessed a 60-70% increase, while almonds have risen by 25% from last Diwali. Cashew prices have gone up 5-8%, resin prices by 2-5%, dates by 5-10%, and anjirs or dried figs by 5-15%.

The shortage of nuts and dry fruits originating from Iran and Afghanistan due to the US-Iran war has contributed to the pricing surge. Importers have noted challenges in sourcing these products. Wholesale prices of Peshawari pistachios, often used in Indian sweets, have hit a record high of ₹4,000/kg, marking a 40% increase over the past six months.

Wealthy importers attribute the steep jump in prices to multiple factors such as tighter supplies from key suppliers, lower global almond production, higher freight costs, and a weaker Indian rupee, which has lifted import charges. The rise in prices has been the most significant in the last two months.

Additionally, the evolving geopolitical situation has played a role in driving up the costs of nuts and dry fruits. Importers of Californian almonds reported delays in shipments from the US, as shipping lines now give preference to China due to higher freight rates offered by the Chinese market. The new almond crop from California is also expected to be lower than initially anticipated due to a reduced use of fertilizers.