The Miyazaki mango, renowned for its purported high market value of $3,400 to $3,600 per kg, is losing traction in Malihabad, India. Local farmers report a lack of demand and unwillingness among buyers to pay such prices.
Zubair, an orchardist with Miyazaki trees on four bighas, expresses skepticism about the variety's pricing. "That price attached to the variety is pure myth," he states, noting that despite a decent yield, prices hover around $6 per kilo. Zubair's attempts to reach international markets were met with resistance, and he ended up distributing the fruit for free. "This year too, no one is ready to pay more for the mangoes. The market is cold to the Miyazaki variety," he explains.
Highlighting comparisons with other exotic varieties like Tommy Atkins and Ambika, priced at about $6 per kilo, Zubair emphasizes that Miyazaki's prices are inflated. He cites previous experiences with Dussehri mangoes, predicting a similar price normalization for Miyazaki as its production grows in India and Pakistan.
Trader Ram Chandra, a 20-year veteran of Malihabad's fruit market, confirms the absence of Miyazaki mangoes, predicting a retail price of $1.20 per kilo. "Prices have not changed in two decades," he attests. Mango researcher Shubham Mishra clarifies differences between Japanese and Indian Miyazaki variants, citing climate-specific traits that Indian conditions fail to replicate. Despite a visually appealing exocarp, taste and fiber retention issues persist.
R.K. Singh, a nursery operator, observes that Miyazaki saplings, bought for $12.00 each, are primarily hobbyist purchases, driven by the allure of potentially lucrative yields.
Farmer Iqbal Ahmad remarks on the timing of Miyazaki's ripening, noting its unsuitability for competitive pricing. It remains a popular photo subject due to its reputed value, yet its market presence falls short. Meanwhile, veteran grower Phool Chandra appreciates the Miyazaki for its mild sweetness but maintains a preference for local varieties like Dussehri, Langda, and Chausa.
Currently, in Malihabad, the Miyazaki mango garners more online interest than market demand, suggesting its status as an exotic novelty yet to prove its commercial worth.
Source: ETV Bharat