Kannur: The fruit market is buzzing during the Ramadan fasting season, with dates taking centre stage. From the king of dates, Medjool, to the affordable Karakka, varieties imported from several countries have filled shop shelves. Imported dates priced between ₹150 and ₹1,100 per kg are dominating the market.

Medjool is the most expensive variety. These large-sized dates are mainly imported from Jordan and cost ₹1,100 per kg. They also arrive from Pakistan and Israel. Prices vary depending on size and quality. Ajwa, believed to have medicinal properties, starts at ₹600 per kg. The soft Mazafati variety is imported from Iran.

Prices start at ₹150 per kg, with Saudi varieties in high demand due to their quality and affordability. Safawi from Saudi Arabia is a leading favourite, priced from ₹350 per kg. Karakka costs between ₹150 and ₹350 per kg.

“Earlier, Karakka used to be more expensive. Now people prefer softer dates. During Ramadan, sales usually double. Many people buy dry fruits in bulk for charitable distribution,” said K Mohammed Riyas, owner of Swadeshi Dry Fruits Impex on Gopal Street.

Almonds, figs, and walnuts are also in demand. The most expensive almond variety is Mamra, imported from Tanzania, priced at ₹3,000 per kg. Figs cost up to ₹1,500 per kg. Compared to last Ramadan, there hasn’t been a sharp rise in dry fruit prices.

Watermelon leads

Despite the array of imported fruits, watermelon remains the fasting favourite due to its high water content. It is priced at ₹28 per kg. Mandarin oranges are the new-gen entry in the fruit market. Imported from China and Morocco, these small, seedless, and sweet oranges cost ₹200 per kg. Other orange varieties are priced between ₹80 and ₹100 per kg, while citrus oranges are available at ₹120 per kg.

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Fruits at a market in Kolkata | ANI

Fruit prices are slightly lower compared to last year. However, traders say the usual brisk early Ramadan sales have not picked up this time, according to P Sajir of JTS shop on Rajiv Gandhi Road. Several apple varieties are available, priced between ₹220 and ₹300 per kg. Gala apples cost ₹280 per kg. Sweet limes mostly arrive from Maharashtra and are priced at ₹220 per kg. Avocados from Tanzania cost ₹600 per kg. Strawberries have also arrived in the market, while cherries are priced at ₹2,000 per kg.