The traders of Khari Baoli market in Old Delhi, one of the city’s oldest markets, are filled with uncertainty as fruit imports from Iran have been hit amid escalating geopolitical conflict in the Middle East. This blow comes at a time when merchants are already navigating a setback triggered by the closure of the Attari-Wagah border following tensions between India and Pakistan after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

The increasing tension in West Asia has also contributed to a surge in the prices of dry fruits imported from Iran. For instance, almond prices have increased by ₹400 to ₹450 per kilo, while pistachio prices have risen by ₹300 per kilo.

“Even some medicinal herbs like salam mishri (used in Ayurvedic medicines) are imported from Iran, and their prices have also significantly increased,” a trader from the market told national media.

Optimism in Delhi

The Chandni Chowk MP and BJP leader, Praveen Khandelwal, commented on the ongoing crisis, saying, “The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has naturally had an impact on traders in the Khari Baoli market. Prices of dates, saffron, and other spices imported from Iran may likely rise due to the disrupted supply chain and increased freight costs.”

According to Khandelwal, the government is taking necessary steps to keep prices in check.

Despite the setback, the President of the Khari Baoli Traders Association, Rajan Bhargava, remains optimistic and told national media, “There was a slight impact on the goods that used to come directly from Iran, but some stock was already here. Now that the war is set to end, the supply will hopefully resume.”