INDIA - Just last week on October 22, Westfalia Fruit’s first-ever container of South African Hass avocados arrived in India. This accomplishment comes after the finalization of a long-awaited phytosanitary agreement between South Africa and India—the result of years of dedicated work to open the promising new market.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the arrival of our first shipment of South African Hass avocados to the India market,” said Zac Bard, Business Development Executive. “This achievement highlights our dedication to expanding our global footprint and delivering top-quality produce to new markets. We look forward to establishing a strong presence in India and strengthening the ties between our two countries. Supplies of high-quality, large-sized Hass avocados from South Africa to India will complement our supply abilities from other sourcing origins.”

The geographical proximity of Africa to India provides South African avocados a competitive advantage over Latin American origins, which face longer transit times, according to a press release. India, a rapidly growing fruit market, offers excellent opportunities for South Africa, particularly during the April to October period.

“This shipment allows Westfalia Fruit to ensure that we land a quality product in the market, that complies with the requirements set out in the import protocol for India. We can then confidently scale up shipments in the 2025 season with a solid campaign that can support the growing consumption in India,” Bard added.

East Africa, which has faced logistical challenges with shipping to Europe due to the Suez Canal closure, and Kenya and Tanzania are increasingly focusing their efforts on eastern markets which will ensure that there is sufficient supply from all African sources to meet growing demand in the Middle East, India, and Far Eastern markets.

While India is currently a much smaller avocado market compared to Europe, it holds immense potential for growth. Westfalia is committed to supporting this growth by not only supplying high-quality fruit but also partnering with initiatives aimed at raising awareness around the nutritional benefits and versatility of avocados.

“This first shipment to India marks an exciting new chapter for Westfalia as we continue to broaden our global presence,” said Ajay TG, General Manager at Westfalia Fruit India. “India’s growing interest in avocados presents a significant opportunity, and we are eager to build strong partnerships within the market. With our focus on quality and sustainability, we look forward to playing a role in meeting the rising demand for avocados in India.”

Cheers to this first-ever shipment!