These winters won be that bad for dry fruit lovers. The global economic slowdown which resulted in stagnation in demand for almost all commodities also affected the dry fruits. Despite the surge in transport costs due to the increase in fuel prices, the prices for dry fruits and nuts are almost at the level they were last year. The whole sale rate for various qualities of almonds is between Rs180-650 per kg, the rate for raisins is between Rs250-300 per kg. The rate for Cashew is between Rs800-1000 per kg. The rate for pistachio with shell is between Rs800-1000 per kg and without shell is between Rs1000-1300. Peanuts are priced between Rs90-160 per kg. Pakistani Walnut, dried date and pine tree nut (chilghoza) have great international demand. They constitute the majority of the dry fruit export. The price range for walnut, dried date, and pine tree nut depending on the quality are in the following range, Rs150-800 per kg for walnut, Rs40-180 per kg for dried date and Rs1800-3000 per kg for pine tree nut. The retail price for cashew nut at a mega retail store in Karachi is Rs1,625 per kg. A prominent wholesaler while talking to BR research told that the retailers are charging 20 to 50 percent margins depending on the location. Another trader while talking to BR research said that due to the low purchasing power the local demand for dry fruits has decreased. His arguments holds little ground when one looks at the import numbers, in July-October FY12 the imports of dry fruit stood at $19.5 million, compared to $19.6 million same period last year. Despite the fact that right now prices are at the same level as the last year, there are chances for an increase in prices of dry fruits. As right now it is believed that the carry over stock of last year is being injected into the market. As soon as the peak season arrives, mid December to February, it is believed that the people stocking this years produce would inject their holdings in the market. This would be pushing up prices fairly above the current level.
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