Higher production of fruits, vegetables, flowers and spices is expected to strengthen the foodservice, hotel and tourism ecosystem while supporting price stability

Key Highlights

• India’s horticulture production is estimated to reach 3,777.76 lakh tonnes in 2025-26, up 1.9% from the previous year.
• Horticulture cultivation area is projected at 301.51 lakh hectares.
• Fruit production is expected to increase by 3.25%, driven by banana, mango, papaya, apple and guava.
• Vegetable production is estimated to rise to 2,210 lakh tonnes, with higher output of potato, tomato, okra, peas, cauliflower and bottle gourd.
• Flower production is projected to grow by 7.47%, while spices and medicinal crops are also expected to register higher output.
• The estimates indicate a positive outlook for hotels, restaurants, catering companies and food processors that rely on fresh produce.

India’s Horticulture Sector Continues Growth Trajectory

The Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has released the Second Advance Estimates for 2025-26, projecting India’s horticulture production at 3,777.76 lakh tonnes, an increase of 70.39 lakh tonnes (1.9%) over the previous year’s final estimates.

The area under horticulture cultivation is also expected to witness a marginal increase, reaching 301.51 lakh hectares, reflecting continued expansion and resilience in the sector.

The estimates are based on information received from States, Union Territories and other government agencies.

Fruit Production Gets a Significant Boost

Among the major positives is the projected growth in fruit production, which is expected to increase from 1,176.49 lakh tonnes in 2024-25 to 1,214.75 lakh tonnes in 2025-26, representing a 3.25% rise.

Higher production is anticipated across several popular fruits, including:

• Banana
• Mango
• Papaya
• Apple
• Guava

The increase is particularly significant for India’s hospitality industry, where fresh fruits are widely used in breakfast menus, desserts, beverages and wellness-focused offerings.

Vegetable Production Expected to Rise

The area under vegetable cultivation is projected to increase to 118.79 lakh hectares, while production is expected to reach 2,210 lakh tonnes, up 1.47% from the previous year.

Higher output is expected in several key kitchen staples:

• Potato
• Tomato
• Okra (Ladyfinger)
• Peas
• Cauliflower
• Bottle gourd

Potato production alone is estimated at 598.89 lakh tonnes, an increase of 2.25%, while tomato production is expected to rise by 4.19% to 214.61 lakh tonnes.

Onion Production Remains Stable Despite Higher Cultivation Area

The area under onion cultivation is projected to increase by 2.31%, reaching 20.14 lakh hectares. However, overall production is expected to remain largely stable at 307.37 lakh tonnes, nearly matching last year’s output.

For the foodservice industry, stable onion availability is particularly important, as it remains one of the most widely consumed ingredients across Indian cuisine.

Flowers, Spices and Medicinal Crops Also Register Growth

The estimates indicate encouraging growth beyond fruits and vegetables.

• Flower production is expected to increase by 7.47%, reaching 45.84 lakh tonnes.
• Production of aromatic and medicinal plants is projected to rise from 9.01 lakh tonnes to 9.76 lakh tonnes.
• Spice production is expected to increase to 126.55 lakh tonnes, supported by higher output of:
  • Garlic
  • Turmeric
  • Curry Leaf
  • Fenugreek

Plantation crops are expected to cover 46.56 lakh hectares, with production estimated at 169.34 lakh tonnes.

Impact on Hospitality, Food & Tourism

The projected growth in horticultural production is positive news for India’s hospitality and tourism sectors, where fresh agricultural produce forms the backbone of culinary operations.

Hotels and Restaurants

Higher availability of fruits and vegetables can improve procurement efficiency and help stabilize input costs for hotels, restaurants, cafés and catering businesses.

Food Processing and Beverage Industry

Greater production supports manufacturers of juices, sauces, frozen foods, ready-to-eat products and specialty ingredients, strengthening the broader food value chain.

Culinary Tourism

An abundant supply of seasonal produce enhances regional food experiences, farm-to-table dining and destination-based gastronomy, which continue to attract both domestic and international travellers.

Event and Banquet Industry

Growth in flower production benefits weddings, conferences, luxury events and hospitality décor, while increased spice availability supports India’s diverse culinary offerings.

Industry Takeaway

The latest horticulture estimates indicate a healthy outlook for India’s fresh produce sector. Beyond agriculture, the projected increase in fruits, vegetables, flowers and spices is likely to strengthen the hospitality, foodservice and tourism industries by ensuring better availability of essential ingredients, supporting menu innovation and contributing to a more resilient farm-to-fork ecosystem.