AP exports nearly 50,000 MT mango globally despite Japan’s market setback

KURNOOL : Andhra Pradesh’s export of mangoes globally took a hit with regard to Japan, but exports to other international destinations have continued without disruption.

Known for producing some of the most delicious mango varieties in the world, AP exports its produce to over 30 countries worldwide. Popular varieties, such as Alphonso and Kesar, which are a niche in Japan, could not be shipped this season due to concerns related to Vapour Heat Treatment (VHT) protocols.

VHT is a crucial phytosanitary process that mangoes have to go through before exports. This ensures that the fruits are free from pests, particularly fruit flies, and meet the importing country’s quality standards. “Japan has pointed to certain technical deficiencies in the VHT process this year for not approving mangoes for exports,” officials said.

As a result, mango consignments from Andhra Pradesh as well as other parts of India could not be exported to Japan this season. Despite this setback, the state has continued to maintain its strong presence in the global mango market. The state exports nearly 50,000 metric tonnes of mangoes annually, with an estimated value ranging between ₹2,500 crore and ₹3,000 crore.

A majority of these exports are to Gulf countries, while significant quantities are also shipped to the United States, the United Kingdom and several European nations.

“Exports to Japan have always been in relatively small quantities compared to other destinations,” M. Peddaswamy, Business Development Officer at APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) maintained.

Officials clarified that global geopolitical tensions, including the US-Israel-Iran situation and trade restrictions, have not impacted mango exports this year. “Varieties like Banganapalli, Benishan, Kesar, and Himam are being exported to Gulf countries without any hurdles,” a Horticulture department official pointed out.

Incidentally, some of the AP farmers are exporting their mango produce through other states, such as Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, which fall outside APEDA’s direct purview. “This year, many farmers from Chittoor district have shifted to Tamil Nadu markets for better access to exports,” sources said.

Significantly, despite Japan’s temporary refusal, Andhra Pradesh continues to lead the country in mango exports, reinforcing its reputation as a key player in the global fruit market. “Our mangoes are among the best in terms of taste, colour, and size,” said P. Siva Shankar Reddy, a farmer from Dhone in Nandyal district. “They are visually appealing and irresistible to buyers,” he underlined.