Shimla: Apple and other fruits prices are not likely to reduce even after August, as production in the Valley (Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh), one of the major fruit producers in the country, has diminished.

According to the traders, apple prices start declining from August every year after arrival of new crop from the north, particularly Himachal Pradesh. But the rates are likely to remain high till October when the supply of the fruit from Kashmir begins.

A Dwivedi, director of Dev Bhumi Cold Chain, said, “Production of apple is likely to dip to 2.5 lakh tonnes this year from 5.94 lakh tonnes in the last year.”