Apple prices tumble despite low yield

Apple prices have slumped to a third of what they were a month ago in markets across India. The prices of a 22-kg apple box fetched an all-time high rate of Rs 1,200 and more in July but since then the drop in prices has been steady despite a low yield this year.

The prices over the weekend in Shimla and other state wholesale markets have varied between Rs 200 and Rs 550 per box for the past few days.

"Few buyers are arriving at the Delhi market. There are virtually no buyers from Gujarat and Rajasthan," said Lekh Raj Chauhan, president of the Himachal Apple Growers' Association.