Uran: The ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the US, Iran, and Israel are beginning to affect India’s agricultural export sector. At the Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPA), more than 500 containers of onions from Maharashtra—mainly from Nashik—are currently stranded, as major Gulf markets have temporarily shut down. In addition to onions, other perishable goods such as bananas, grapes, and sea fish are also stuck at the port, raising alarm among farmers and exporters.

“Over 16,000 tons of onions, valued at Rs 36 crore, are currently stuck in containers,” said an industry insider. “The ongoing war has caused major disruptions, with Dubai’s market completely shut down. If no solution is found soon, these goods will spoil.”

The disruption comes at a crucial export period. Agricultural shipments, including onions from Gujarat, were scheduled for dispatch to Gulf countries ahead of Ramadan and Eid. However, with ports in Dubai closed and shipping bookings suspended, exporters have been unable to send the consignments to their destinations.

Farmers are increasingly worried about the mounting losses. “Our produce is rotting while we wait for a resolution,” said a Nashik onion exporter. “If the situation continues, we will face severe financial setbacks.”

The conflict has intensified after Iran launched missile attacks targeting US-allied nations, further destabilizing trade routes in the region. With Gulf markets largely inactive, both farmers and exporters are hoping for a quick resolution to prevent additional losses.

A spokesperson from JNPA confirmed the scale of the disruption, stating, “Over 5,000 containers—including 1,000 reefer (refrigerated) units—are currently stalled at the terminal.”

Banana Exports Hit Hard

Banana shipments bound for Iraq are among the worst affected. Since bananas are highly perishable and have a limited shelf life, prolonged delays could force exporters to recall their consignments and sell them in domestic markets at extremely low prices, resulting in heavy financial losses.

“Exporters will likely have to bring back the banana shipments as they cannot withstand long delays. Selling them locally at a loss, while bearing the brunt of packaging and transport costs, seems inevitable if the situation doesn't improve," said Director of the APMC Fruit Market, requesting anonymity.

Concerns Over Alphonso Mango Season

The timing of the crisis has also raised concerns about the upcoming Alphonso mango season. Nearly 30% of India’s premium mango production is exported each year. This season is already expected to see reduced yields due to unseasonal late rains, and disruptions in export routes have left growers and traders anxious about potential losses.