On Friday 24 June, 18 tonnes of Banganapalli, Kesar and Alphonso mangoes started a voyage to the United States by sea, from the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust in India. The consignment, the first to travel by sea, is likely to reach the New York port in 22 days from where it will be distributed.
Mangoes were earlier shipped only by air to America, stunting exports. Government officials and traders see the sea route as a potential game changer.
Mango exports to the U.S. have been restricted to the air-route as the fruit ripens rapidly once harvested.
Fifty-two per cent of the world’s mango production is in India. However, official figures indicate that only 2 per cent is exported. This year, around 175 tonnes of mangoes were exported to the US by air. But that was more expensive compared to exports to other countries. The sea route is seen as offering better returns and is capable of handling more mangoes.
“A box of 3.5 kgs costs around $18 if sent via airplane. The sea route costs $8. We are keeping our fingers crossed as never before have mangoes reached a U.S. port in edible condition via sea. If we succeed, it will open up a huge market,” said Pankaj Gathani, Group CMD, Mukund Export.
The consignment was shipped in atmosphere controlled containers. As per U.S. law, chemicals or silica pouches cannot be used to control ripening. The containers are meant to slow down the ripening process. “We have also tried to cut the time between harvesting and shipping. We understand that it is a total risk, but we are hopeful,” he said, adding that insurance cover for exports would help greatly.
“Opening as many markets as possible is absolutely essential for mango producers and traders. We hope this sea route experiment becomes a success. Farmers will benefit,” said Vivek Bhide, President, Konkan Cooperative Association of Alphonso Mango Growers and Sellers.
Source: thehindu.com
