India’s mango exports faced significant challenges

India’s mango exports faced significant challenges this season due to unseasonal May rains, which severely impacted Alphonso yields in the Konkan belt. According to Ekram Hussain, an exporter of fresh fruits & vegetables, the rains led to a 20-30% decline in Alphonso output, compounded by a post-ripening disorder that resulted in customer rejections. However, Karnataka’s Badami variety fared better, with stable yields boosting exports.

Hussain highlighted several other challenges, including internal competition among Indian exporters, which eroded profit margins and rising freight costs, particularly to Europe. Pakistan’s ongoing mango season with lower rates added to the pressure.

To alleviate financial strain, Hussain is seeking government support, specifically a reduction in the 18% GST on air freight, which ties up capital for exporters. In contrast, the US has a more favorable tax structure for exporters.

Despite the challenges, he found success with other mango varieties like Banganapalle, Chausa, and Badami. New markets, such as Japan, are showing promise for Chausa and other varieties are attracting better rates than Alphonso and Kesar. For the next season, Hussain hopes for government support to ease financial strain and make Indian mangoes more competitive globally.