Surge in Watermelon Seed Prices; No Downturn Likely Soon

New Delhi. Prices of watermelon seeds (*magaj*) are rising daily. This is driven by robust festive demand in the spot market, the government's failure to issue an import notification for the current season so far, and disruptions in the supply of domestic stock. Consequently, an upward trend in prices persists, with further increases anticipated.

Notably, due to low spot market stocks and rising demand, prices have surged by ₹100–110 per kg this week. In the Jodhpur market, the price for '7-Star Sudan' variety seeds reached ₹621, up from an opening price of ₹510 earlier in the week. Similarly, the price for '5-Star Desi' (domestic) variety rose from ₹475 at the start of the week to ₹590. Sources indicate that demand will remain strong due to the upcoming festive season, likely driving prices even higher.

Crop Status

Industry sources estimate that the harvest arriving around Diwali will be lower than last year's, as production has been impacted by water scarcity. Last year, domestic production of watermelon seeds was estimated at approximately 3 to 3.5 lakh bags (each weighing 50–60 kg).

Record Prices Set in 2023

According to available information, imports were limited due to the civil war in Sudan, and domestic yields were also low. As a result, watermelon seed prices in Rajasthan's markets hit a record high of ₹820–830 during November–December 2023.

Imports

According to data released by the Department of Commerce, India, imports of watermelon seeds (magaj) stood at only 5,211 tonnes during the 2025-26 (April-March) period, whereas imports had amounted to 86,273 tonnes in 2024-25. Imports totaled 35,750 tonnes in 2023-24 and 65,989 tonnes in 2022-23.