India: Worsening situation for mango exporters

Indian mango growers are facing a tough season, first some areas of southern India were hit by the rain and hail which also damaged the grape crop, now there are reports that the EU will not allow the Alphonso mangoes in.

One Indian trader said that it was bit too early to tell how much damage had been done by the rain and hail, it would be a few more weeks till he was ready to harvest and could measure the extent of the damage, but he thinks he has been one of the lucky ones.

This exporter was planning to export 'The King of Fruits' to the European market, but has just heard that the regulations may change. The exporter is still not completely sure what the changes will entail, but understands that it means all the Alphonso mangoes to be exported will have to go through just 35 post harvesting units.

The situation is very unclear for the exporters, as to why it is only one variety which will be subject to these changes in regulation is not known. The trader said it was likely to have a huge impact on the price.

Exporters hear of any changes in regulations from a government institute which updates all registered companies. They are still waiting to hear exactly what the new regulations will entail.