India exported around 143 metric tonnes of mangoes to the US during 2008 valued at Rupees two crores, ending 18 years of US ban on the import of the fruit.
According to Commerce Ministry sources, the low offtake was a result of low quality of the fruit due to unseasonal rains. The 2009 mango season is yet to commence.
The limited facility for treatment of mangoes for irradiation for export to the US, high cost of compliance with the pre-clearence, high airfreight costs, huge funds required for promotion programmes, stiff competition from countries like Mexico and Brazil are the hurdles for export of mangoes to the US, the sources said.
The Government has been coordinating with the export promotion agencies such as Agricultural Product Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Export Inspection Council (EIC) by providing necessary technical inputs and financial assistance.
The APEDA through its schemes for infrastructure development, quality development, market development and schemes for research and development (R&D) has been making efforts to gain market access for fruit and vegetables, including mangoes.
The US has allowed the imports of Indian mangoes to its country after both sides agreed to an Operational Work Plan, according to which US Department of Agriculture deputes its inspectors to India during the mango season to oversee the complete operation of mango exports, sources said.
Source: New kerala
Publication date: 3/16/200
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