Nashik's Grape Wine Exports Experience Remarkable 80% Growth Over Four Years
India's grape wine exports have demonstrated a robust recovery over the past four years, surging nearly 80% as the industry bounces back from the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. According to data from the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, exports increased significantly from 4.82 lakh litres in the 2021-22 fiscal year to an impressive 8.71 lakh litres in 2024-25.
Parliamentary Inquiry Reveals Export Figures
The export statistics were disclosed in response to a parliamentary question posed by Dindori MP Bhaskar Bhagare, who sought detailed information on government initiatives aimed at promoting wine exports from India. This parliamentary exchange has brought renewed attention to the wine sector's performance and potential.
Maharashtra's Dominance and Nashik's Central Role
Maharashtra continues to be the powerhouse of India's wine industry, accounting for over 90% of the country's total grape wine exports. Within the state, Nashik district stands out as the primary wine-producing hub, responsible for nearly 75% of Maharashtra's export volume. This dominance is attributed to several factors including favourable growing conditions, well-established wineries, and increasing international demand for Indian wines.
Industry Leader Comments on Recovery Trajectory
Jagdish Holkar, President of the All-India Wine Producers' Association (AIWPA), emphasized that the recent export surge represents a steady comeback from the pandemic-induced slump. "India's average grape wine exports stood at 11 lakh litres annually before Covid, making up about 10% of the nation's total production," Holkar explained. "The pandemic severely disrupted both demand and global logistics, causing exports to drop to 6.42 lakh litres in 2020-21 and further decline to 4.82 lakh litres in 2021-22. The subsequent rise reflects renewed global interest in Indian wines and stabilising international trade conditions."
Key Export Markets and Distribution Patterns
In the 2024-25 fiscal year, approximately 35% of India's grape wine exports were shipped to five major international markets:
- United Arab Emirates (1.26 lakh litres)
- France (98,330 litres)
- China (48,410 litres)
- The Netherlands (18,470 litres)
- Hong Kong (16,430 litres)
Industry experts attribute this growth to increasing global acceptance of Indian wines and targeted promotional campaigns that have enhanced the international profile of Indian wine producers.
Government Initiatives to Boost Exports
To further strengthen export performance, the Department of Commerce, through the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), has implemented several supportive measures for Indian wineries. These initiatives include:
- Facilitating participation in global food and beverage exhibitions
- Organizing buyer-seller meetings to connect producers with international clients
- Coordinating overseas delegation visits to explore new market opportunities
Industry Structure and Production Capacity
Currently, India boasts 95 operational wineries, with Maharashtra alone housing 70 of these establishments. Nashik district, with its 40 wineries, contributes nearly 80% of the nation's total wine output. According to AIWPA data, India's annual wine sales, including both domestic and imported products, stand at approximately 3.2 crore litres. Imported wines account for roughly 45 lakh litres, representing about 14.3% of total consumption in the country.
Export Performance Trends Over Recent Years
India's grape wine exports have shown notable fluctuations in recent years, reflecting the industry's response to global challenges and opportunities:
- 2020-21: 6.42 lakh litres (valued at $4.29 million)
- 2021-22: 4.82 lakh litres (valued at $5.06 million)
- 2022-23: 5.21 lakh litres (valued at $3.80 million)
- 2023-24: 6.52 lakh litres (valued at $4.04 million)
- 2024-25: 8.71 lakh litres (valued at $5.97 million)
This data from the Commerce Ministry illustrates a clear recovery pattern, with exports picking up momentum in 2023-24 and achieving significant growth in 2024-25, marking a positive trajectory for India's wine export sector.
