Production and Export Performance of Fresh and Dried Figs from Afghanistan vis-à-vis India

Abstract

The study was conducted on the production and export performance of fresh and dried figs from Afghanistan and India. The study was based on secondary data on area, production, productivity, and export of figs from 2000-01 to 2020-21. The data were analyzed using tools such as compound growth rates, coefficients of variation, the Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index, and Markov Chain Analysis. The results revealed that the growth rates of area, production, productivity, export quantity, and export value of fresh and dried figs from both countries were favourable, with the exception of non-significant growth for the area in Afghanistan and the export quantity in India. The highest fluctuation in both countries was reflected in the exports of the quantity and value of fresh and dried figs. In contrast, instability in terms of area, production, and productivity of figs in Afghanistan was higher than in India. India was recognized as the most stable market for Afghan fresh and dried figs, followed by the UAE. In contrast, the Maldives was found to be the most loyal market for Indian fresh and dried figs, followed by Hong Kong and the USA respectively.