West Asia Conflict Sparks Soaring Dry Fruit Prices in Delhi

In the wake of escalated tensions in West Asia, dry fruit prices in Delhi have witnessed a dramatic spike of up to 50%. Traders in the capital's renowned Khari Baoli market attribute the surge to severe supply chain disruptions affecting essential imports, including medicinal herbs.

Rajiv Bhatia, president of the Khari Baoli Market Association, highlighted the slowdown in imports as a significant factor. 'Except for cashew, most dry fruits come from West Asia. As the Eid festival nears, demand for dates is rising, but supplies remain critically low,' he remarked.

This shortage reverberates beyond dry fruits, as Indian exports to regions like Dubai face hurdles, spawning uncertainty in prominent Delhi markets. The Chamber of Trade and Industry warns that continued conflict risks impacting trades worth approximately Rs 5,000 crore, further jacking up the prices of raw materials and medicines.