Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has recorded a 124% increase in mango exports compared to the previous year.
In 2023, the airport processed export of 6,84,648 kg of mangoes, showcasing a significant rise from the 3,05,521 kg exported in the previous year. Furthermore, this season’s exports saw an 86% increase in the number, with approximately 17 lakh mangoes being exported.
Particularly noteworthy is the thriving export of mangoes to the United States this year — to Dallas Fort Worth, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, among other places.
Between 2020 and 2022, the export of Indian mangoes to the US was restricted as the officials from the country’s Agriculture Department could not visit and inspect the irradiation facilities. However, after the Agriculture Departments of the two countries signed an agreement in November 2021 stating that both countries will follow a joint protocol on irradiation of India’s mango exports, the export of mangoes resumed in March 2022.
Satyaki Raghunath, Chief Strategy and Development Officer, BIAL, said, “BLR Airport has emerged as a driving force in facilitating perishable exports from India. With substantial volume share across Indian airports, we take pride in our role in enhancing the global reach of south India’s mangoes. Our unwavering commitment to streamlined cool-port export operations underscores BLR Airport’s significance as a premier gateway connecting the world to the rich produce of our region.”
While the export numbers have increased, farmers have expressed their disappointment about profit not reaching their pockets. “With the rise of private companies and brokers, the proceeds from the exports does not reach the growers. The government should strengthen the Mango Board and make it the mediator between farmers and importers to ensure that maximum benefits reach the farmers,” said Neelaturu Chinnappa Reddy, president, Kolar District Mango Growers’ Association.
He added that with the kind of demand the mangoes from Karnataka has in countries like South Korea and US, especially for varieties like Alphonso and Mallika, the government should increase export facilities to help farmers expand the trade.
