Gujarat’s Kesar Mango exports surge, boosting global recognition

JUNAGADH : Gujarat’s iconic Kesar Mango is making a bold impact on the global stage, with exports reaching an impressive 689.5 metric tonnes in 2023-24. Revered for its deep saffron hue, rich sweetness, and irresistible aroma, the GI-tagged mango continues to strengthen its presence in international markets. As demand skyrockets, Gujarat solidifies its status as a key player in India’s mango export industry.

Mango cultivation in Gujarat dates back centuries, but it was in 1931 that the Kesar mango was officially introduced in Junagadh’s Gir region. The fruit derives its name from its distinctive saffron-colored pulp, with the Nawab of Junagadh famously naming it “Kesar” for its golden-orange glow. The state boasts over 177,514 hectares of mango orchards, covering key regions such as Valsad, Navsari, Gir-Somnath, Surat, and Kachchh.

Gujarat’s mango production has been on a steady rise. In 2024, the state produced 1.08 million metric tonnes, up from 960,000 metric tonnes in 2023, according to the Gujarat Horticulture Department. Experts credit the region’s ideal climate and soil composition for the fruit’s premium quality.

Unlike Alphonso mangoes that thrive in coastal regions, Kesar mangoes are uniquely suited to Gujarat’s semi-arid conditions. The combination of sandy loam and black cotton soil, coupled with hot summers and moderate rainfall, enhances the fruit’s natural sugars. “The high temperature and mineral-rich soil contribute to the mango’s distinct sweetness and flavor,” explains Dr. Ramesh Patel, an agricultural scientist from Junagadh Agricultural University.