The Lady's Finger has taken the beating following Britain's decision to exit the European Union. The vegetable, which is considered popular and "exotic" in the UK, is likely to become expensive due to exchange rate-related issues affecting exporters in India as they fear a steady drop in demand.
Traders said during periods of economic uncertainties, demand for exotic and organic food declines. While the South Asian community would buy it irrespective of the prices, those who experiment with it may not do so. "Exchange rate vis-a-vis the pound is likely to have long term implications. Food prices in UK would go up. This will invariably lead to a fall in sales," said Kaushal Khakhar, CEO, Kay Bee Exports. In 2014-15, India exported vegetables and fruits worth £747.4.4 million, fruits worth £277.13 million and vegetables worth £470.27 million.
Some of the main Indian vegetables exported to the UK include, Indian mangoes, pomegranates, vegetables like Lady's Finger, Baby Corn and Chillies. "Now the UK will have to consider only its own quarantine concerns. Being a Northern European country, we expect it to have far fewer restrictions," Khakhar said.
