In much of Asia, onions are sold as either "big onions" or "small onions". Big onions are the large red bulb onions that India's Nashik region grows in huge volumes; small onions are shallot-type onions used whole in curries.
Versa Traders supplies the big-onion trade with graded Nashik red onions, mainly from the rabi crop, which has the firm, dry-skinned bulbs that hold up best on a sea voyage.
What makes a good export big onion?
- Size graded to the band — no undersized bulbs in a 55 mm+ pack
- Fully cured, with dry outer skins and tight, dry necks
- Firm bulbs, free from rot, sprouting and splits
- Even colour across the lot
Which markets buy Indian big onions?
Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore and other Southeast Asian markets use the term "big onion" and import Indian red onions regularly. Gulf retailers and wholesalers also buy large red onions for supermarket packs.
Do big onions cost more?
Usually, yes. Only part of any harvest grades above 55 mm, so larger bands carry a premium over mixed or mid-size onions. The premium varies with the crop and the season, and is shown on every quote.
Frequently asked questions about big onions
What is a big onion?
"Big onion" is the trade name — used especially in Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore — for large red bulb onions, as opposed to small onions or shallots. Indian big onions are mainly Nashik red onions graded 55 mm and above.
What sizes are big onions?
Big onions for export are usually graded 55 mm and above, with 60 mm-plus and 65 mm-plus bands for buyers who want the largest bulbs. Mid-size 45–65 mm onions are also widely traded for retail.
Can I buy Nashik big onions for Sri Lanka or Malaysia?
Yes. Versa Traders quotes Nashik big onions (55 mm and above) and mid-size red onions to Colombo, Port Klang, Penang and other Asian ports, FOB, CFR or CIF, in refrigerated or ventilated containers.
Guides on big onions
- Nashik Onion: Why India's Most Famous Onion Is the Importer's DefaultAsk an importer for "Indian onions" and they usually mean Nashik. Here is why.
- Big Onion vs Small Onion: What Importers Mean and Which to Buy from IndiaTwo words that run the onion trade across South and Southeast Asia.
- What Affects Indian Onion Export Prices? Seasons, Size, Weather, Policy and FreightOnion prices can double in weeks. These are the levers that move them.