India’s multi-million-pound mango trade is under severe pressure as a combination of extreme weather, trade restrictions and global logistics costs disrupt exports. The country produces nearly half of the world’s mangoes, with the sector generating over $56 million in revenue last year.

While the Middle East remains the largest buyer, premium markets such as the UK and Japan are key for higher prices and strict quality standards.

Alphonso crop suffers major damage in Konkan heatwaves

The “King of Mangoes” — the Alphonso variety — is facing serious losses in the coastal Konkan region.

Agriculture officials said record-breaking heatwaves linked to the El Niño weather pattern have damaged orchards. Wild temperature swings during winter destroyed flowering, while extreme heat in April and May destroyed much of the remaining fruit.

In several major growing areas, farmers have lost up to 90 per cent of their expected harvest. Local growers, who form the backbone of the regional economy, are now struggling to source enough fruit to sustain operations.

Japan import suspension and Gulf shipping costs deepen crisis

The situation has worsened after Japan imposed a sudden import suspension on Indian mangoes.

Japanese inspectors found that fruit treatment facilities were not meeting required standards. A March inspection at a plant in Uttar Pradesh identified deficiencies in the “vapour heat treatment” process, a chemical-free method used to eliminate fruit flies. As a result, Japan has suspended imports of all major Indian mango varieties for the 2026 season. The suspension marks a setback for a trade relationship that has remained stable for two decades.

Meanwhile, hostilities in West Asia have pushed shipping costs to more than double, making export of perishable goods increasingly expensive. Some exporters reported a 40 per cent drop in shipments to the Gulf due to logistical constraints.

With exports to Japan halted and Gulf routes under pressure, more mangoes are being diverted to the domestic market, increasing supply and pushing down prices for farmers already affected by low yields. Packaging factories and orchards across the supply chain are also reporting disruptions.