The state of Maharashtra has seen its grape exports exceed the 26,000 tonne mark for 2013, registering an 11,000 increase from this time last year.

The European Union (EU) has provided a particularly lucrative export market for the industry, with demand expected to remain at current levels as exports continue until mid-April.

The EU has stringent regulations for imports of fresh produce which are met by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) of the union agriculture ministry. Only after passing the required tests are grapes permitted to be exported.

The state of Maharashtra is the leading exporter of grapes in India, followed by Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Its sharp rise in grape exports comes in spite of limited rainfall affecting many of the state's growers.

Elsewhere in India, while some farmers have struggled with drought, sporadic heavy rain in Jaipur has damaged crops and caused concerns among farmers who had been anticipating a bumper harvest.

Domestic retail prices of vegetables have risen accordingly, with green leafy vegetables increasing by Rs 5-10 (US$0.10-20) as spinach was sold at Rs 80 per kg and peas at Rs 90 per kg. Further rises are predicted, particularly if the weather remains erratic.

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