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🇺🇸 US Rejects 15 Indian Mango Shipments: Exporters Suffer ₹4 Crore Blow
New Delhi, May 13, 2025 – In a blow to Indian fruit exporters, the United States has junked 15 consignments of mangoes originating from India, citing non-compliance with its import standards. The development has resulted in a collective export loss of over ₹4 crore, sparking concern within India's agri-export community.
These shipments, which were primarily destined for major retailers and distributors across the US East and West coasts, were rejected by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for failing to meet phytosanitary and chemical residue norms.
🚚 What Triggered the Rejection?
The USFDA, responsible for inspecting all food imports into the country, cited the following reasons:
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Excessive use of pesticides beyond permissible limits
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Failure to meet irradiation norms, required for fresh produce
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Improper documentation and labelling
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Inconsistent packaging standards
Several exporters from Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, key mango-producing states, were affected by the rejection.
📉 Impact on Indian Exporters
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🚫 15 shipments rejected at port entry
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💸 Estimated loss: ₹4 crore+
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⛔ Brand credibility of certain exporters damaged
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📉 Future contracts at risk due to loss of confidence
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🌍 Negative sentiment among international buyers
According to export associations, these rejected shipments included popular Indian varieties like Alphonso, Kesar, and Banganapalli, which are in high demand in the US during the summer.
🗣️ Reactions from Industry Experts
📌 APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority):
“We are investigating the root cause and will work with stakeholders to avoid such incidents in the future.”
📌 Leading Mango Exporter:
“One rejection damages years of goodwill. We are calling for tighter pre-export inspections within India.”
🔍 What's Next for Mango Exports?
To avoid recurrence of such export rejections:
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Exporters are being urged to adopt best agri practices
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More rigorous quality checks will be enforced before shipments leave Indian ports
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Export authorities may also tighten licensing for defaulting firms
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Enhanced coordination with the USFDA and Indian regulatory bodies is being discussed
❓ FAQs: US Rejection of Indian Mango Shipments
Q1. Why did the US reject mango shipments from India?
A: The USFDA found multiple violations including pesticide residues, lack of proper irradiation, incorrect labeling, and poor packaging.
Q2. How much financial loss has Indian exporters suffered?
A: Over ₹4 crore in losses have been reported due to the rejection of 15 mango consignments.
Q3. Which mango varieties were rejected?
A: Shipments primarily consisted of Alphonso, Kesar, and Banganapalli mangoes.
Q4. Will this affect future mango exports from India?
A: Yes. It may lead to stricter scrutiny, temporary suspension for defaulting exporters, and a hit to India’s trade image in global fruit markets.
Q5. What is being done to address this issue?
A: Indian authorities and APEDA are investigating and plan to enhance quality control and compliance for future exports.
🧾 Conclusion
This development is a major red flag for India's fresh produce export ecosystem. As demand for Indian mangoes continues globally, ensuring strict compliance with international quality norms is no longer optional but essential. Exporters, regulators, and farmers must collaborate to restore trust and protect India's reputation in global markets.
Reported by Benny on May 20, 2025.