The Ultimate India Dates Buyer’s Handbook (2026)
By Mohammad Abid Hurzuk • Updated for 2026 • B2B & Wholesale Focus
India is one of the largest consumers and importers of dates (khajoor) globally. In 2026, the dates market has evolved into a year-round, multi-billion-rupee ecosystem spanning APMC wholesale markets, imports, cold storage, repacking, retail, e-commerce, and institutional supply.
This handbook is written for importers, wholesalers, APMC traders, retailers, food processors, and new entrepreneurs looking for a single authoritative resource on the dates business in India.
Handbook Navigation
Indian Dates Market Overview (2026)
India imports the majority of its dates from Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, UAE, Tunisia, Algeria, Jordan, and the USA. Consumption is driven by religious use (Ramadan), health awareness, gifting culture, and food processing.
The backbone of India’s wholesale trade remains APMC Vashi Dates Market, which sets daily price direction for most of the country.
Major Date Varieties Sold in India
- Medjool Dates – Premium, jumbo, high-margin (Medjool price guide)
- Ajwa Dates – Religious & medicinal significance
- Mazafati / Kimia Dates – Soft, high-volume family consumption
- Sukkari Dates – Honey-sweet, festive favorite
- Safawi (Kalmi) – Affordable black dates
- Zahidi (Pind Khajur) – Bulk, repacking & processing king (Zahidi wholesale guide)
- Deglet Noor – Baking & industrial use
Indicative Wholesale Price Bands (2026)
| Variety | Wholesale Range (₹/kg) | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Medjool | 500 – 900 | Premium retail & gifting |
| Ajwa | 900 – 1,500+ | Ramadan & religious buyers |
| Mazafati (Kimia) | 180 – 320 | High-volume retail |
| Sukkari | 300 – 650 | Festive & mid-premium |
| Safawi (Kalmi) | 150 – 450 | Wholesale & repacking |
| Zahidi | 140 – 380 | Bulk, NGO, processing |
Prices vary by grade, size, season, and storage condition. Always verify with live APMC quotes.
Grades, Size & Count – The Real Pricing Factor
Professional buyers never ask only for “price per kg”. They negotiate based on count size (pieces per kg) and grade (A / B / C).
- Grade A: Export quality, uniform, plump
- Grade B: Minor cosmetic variation, best value
- Grade C: Processing & industrial use
Cold Storage, Handling & Shelf Life
| Date Type | Storage | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Soft (Mazafati) | 0–5°C cold storage | 4–6 months |
| Semi-soft (Medjool) | Chiller recommended | 6–9 months |
| Dry (Zahidi) | Cool & dry ambient | 12+ months |
Improper storage is the biggest cause of losses in the dates business. Cold chain discipline directly affects resale price and trust.
FSSAI, Labeling & Legal Compliance (India)
All packaged dates sold commercially must comply with FSSAI regulations.
- FSSAI license number & logo
- Product name & net weight
- Importer / packer details
- Batch number & best before date
- Country of origin
For a step-by-step business setup, read: How to Start a Dates Business in India (2026)
APMC & Import Sourcing Strategy
Most import consignments land at JNPT (Nhava Sheva) and move to APMC Vashi. From there, stock flows across India.
New buyers should start with APMC sourcing before attempting direct imports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the dates business profitable in India?
Yes. With correct sourcing, storage, and pricing, margins remain strong in 2026.
Which date is best for beginners?
Zahidi and Safawi offer low risk and steady demand.
Is cold storage mandatory?
Mandatory for soft dates; optional but recommended for premium varieties.
Published by Dates.Business – India’s trusted platform for dates wholesale insights, prices, and sourcing.
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