Dates Business in India (2026): Wholesale, Import & Profit Guide
The dates business in India has transformed into a year-round opportunity. In 2026, dates are no longer limited to religious seasons—they are consumed as a daily health food, natural sweetener and premium gifting product.
This is a cornerstone guide for anyone planning to enter or scale the dates trade in India, covering sourcing, storage, pricing, compliance and long-term growth.
Wholesale APMC Markets Imports Retail & Online Private Label
Indian Dates Market Overview (2026)
India is among the world’s largest consumers of dates but produces only a small quantity domestically. This makes the market structurally import-driven and favourable for traders.
- Growing health awareness
- Strong cultural consumption
- Low wastage compared to fresh fruits
- Rising online grocery demand
Dates Business Models
Wholesale Trading
Bulk supply to retailers, sweet shops and institutions through APMC markets or warehouses.
Retail & Online Sales
Selling packed dates directly to consumers via shops, WhatsApp, marketplaces or own website.
Import & Distribution
Container-level sourcing from origin countries and supplying regional wholesalers.
Private Label & Gifting
Branded packs and gift boxes for festivals, weddings and corporate buyers.
Best Date Varieties to Trade
| Category | Varieties | Demand Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Zahedi, Deglet Noor | Low price, high volume |
| Mid-Range | Sukkari, Safawi | Soft texture, repeat buyers |
| Premium | Medjool, Ajwa, Kimia | High margins, gifting |
Sourcing: APMC vs Imports
- APMC Vashi (Mumbai)
- Regional APMC markets
- Indian importers
- Direct overseas exporters
Storage & Quality Control
- Soft dates: cold storage (0–5°C)
- Dry dates: ventilated ambient storage
- Batch tracking & FIFO rotation
Pricing & Profit Margins
| Variety | Cost (₹/kg) | Selling (₹/kg) | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zahedi | 60–80 | 100–150 | 30–50% |
| Sukkari | 220–300 | 350–550 | 25–45% |
| Medjool | 500–700 | 900–1500 | 40–70% |
FSSAI & Legal Compliance
- FSSAI registration or license
- GST registration
- Local trade license
- IEC for imports
Scaling the Dates Business
- Branded retail packs
- Corporate & festival gifting
- Institutional supply
- Export markets
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the dates business profitable?
Yes. With correct sourcing and storage, margins are stable and demand is consistent.
Is cold storage mandatory?
Only for soft dates. Dry varieties can be stored at room temperature.
- Select business model
- Arrange capital
- Source initial stock
- Set storage & pricing
- Start selling
very detailed and practical guide on starting a dates business in India. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to tap into this growing market. Well explained and inspiring! https://saveplus.in
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