Trade · 5 min read
What Affects Indian Onion Export Prices? Seasons, Size, Weather, Policy and Freight
Onion prices can double in weeks. These are the levers that move them.
Quick answer
Indian onion export prices depend on the harvest season and stored stock, the size of the crop, weather events, daily arrivals at mandis such as Lasalgaon, the size band ordered, India's export policy at the time, and freight rates to the destination. Larger bands such as 55 mm and above usually carry a premium.
Which factors move the price?
- Season — prices often firm as stored rabi stocks run down
- Crop size and weather — heavy rain or drought can tighten supply quickly
- Mandi arrivals — fewer arrivals, higher prices
- Size band — big onions of 55 mm+ cost more than mixed sizes
- Export policy — minimum export prices or duties add to cost
- Freight — reefer rates to your port
How can buyers plan?
Buy in the main rabi storage season, agree short shipment periods, ask for quotes with clear validity and keep a policy clause in the contract.
Frequently asked questions
Why are onion quotes valid for such a short time?
Because mandi prices change daily with arrivals and weather. A short validity protects both buyer and seller.
