The horticulture department in Andhra Pradesh is strategizing to augment mango exports to regions such as the UK, Australia, the Middle East, and the USA, according to the Times of India. The department aims to train farmers across three state regions to yield a minimum of 200,000 tons of export-quality mangoes over the next two years.
Andhra Pradesh ranks among the top mango-producing states in India, with districts like Eluru, Krishna, Annamayya, Chittoor, Tirupati, and Vizianagaram known for high-quality export varieties. The state cultivates various mango types, including Banginapalli, Chinna Rasalu, Pedda Rasalu, Totapuri, Neelam, and Suvarnarekha. The Benishan or Banginpalli variety is regarded as a premium table variety, suitable for export.
Mango cultivation spans 375,000 hectares in Andhra Pradesh, with an estimated yield of 4 to 5 million tons. The state averages 10 to 12 tons per hectare in mango production. To enhance mango farming, the horticulture department has implemented mango cover technology, improving yields by protecting crops from adverse weather and pests. "The cover bags have helped save the crop from extreme weather conditions and pests," stated Dr. CB Harinatha Reddy, Additional Director of Horticulture, to TOI.
Although the Alphonso mango is often deemed superior, the Banganapalli variety from Andhra Pradesh is gaining traction. Demand for Banganapalli mangoes from Rayalaseema and Nuzvid in Eluru district is rising globally. The department has distributed fruit covers worth over $2.4 million to farmers, subsidizing around 10,000 hectares this mango season. This initiative has resulted in larger and more visually appealing fruit. The department's goal is to produce 200,000 to 300,000 tons of export-quality mangoes in the next two years.
Despite challenges such as climate change and pests impacting production, global demand for Andhra Pradesh's mangoes, particularly Banganapalli, is rising. Farmers have exported approximately 600 tons this season, with more expected in the coming weeks. Banginapalli mango prices range from $360 to $480 per ton, contingent on quality and size. Exporting mangoes can yield 30 to 40 percent higher revenue than domestic sales. Andhra Pradesh exported over 4,000 tons in 2023 and 2024, with plans to increase exports in the future.
Source: Times of India