Export of Mangoes from India - An Introduction

Export of Mangoes from India

Introduction: India is the world's largest producer and exporter of mangoes, a fruit that holds cultural and economic significance. The country's mango export industry has grown steadily, thanks to the rich diversity of varieties and favourable climatic conditions. Mangoes from India are celebrated for their taste, texture, and aroma, and are in high demand in global markets. The Indian Government has put several measures in place to promote the export of mangoes to meet the international demand.

Mango Producing States and Varieties

Tracenet: APEDA Tracenet is an electronic platform used for tracing the movement of mangoes from farm to export point. It ensures compliance with quality standards and traceability, which is crucial for meeting international requirements.

Season: Mangoes are typically harvested between March to July, with the peak season being in April to June. The export window aligns with this period.

Hot Water Treatment (HWT): Hot Water Treatment is a crucial post-harvest treatment used to eliminate pests, particularly fruit flies, ensuring that the mangoes are safe for export, especially to markets in the US, Europe, and Australia. The standard process involves soaking mangoes in water heated to 47.5°C for about 20 minutes.

HSN Code:  The HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) Code for mangoes is:

080450: Mangoes, fresh or dried

This code covers fresh mangoes, which are the primary type of mangoes exported from India. If the mangoes are dried, the code would still fall under this same category, though dried mangoes may sometimes be classified separately under different subcategories.

Export Destinations: India exports mangoes to more than 60 countries, including:

• Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia)
• Europe (UK, Germany, France)
• USA
• Australia
• Japan
• Canada
• Russia

Transportation Mode:

• Air Transport: For high-value varieties like Alphonso, especially to markets with time-sensitive demand.
• Sea Transport: Bulk exports to regions like the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, using reefer containers to maintain freshness.
• Road Transport: Within the domestic market before reaching the port.

Export Performance: Mango exports from India have increased over the years. In 2023-2024, the export of mangoes from India reached a record of approximately 50,000 metric tons, generating substantial revenue.

Top Exporting Varieties: Alphonso, Kesar, and Langra.

FSSAI & APEDA Registration & Compliances:

• FSSAI Registration: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) ensures that mangoes exported meet the safety and quality standards for international trade.
• APEDA Registration: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) registers exporters and ensures adherence to the regulations governing the export of mangoes. Mangoes are subject to APEDA's certification for export eligibility.

Documents and Certificates required: When exporting mangoes, there are several important documents that must be prepared and submitted to ensure smooth customs clearance and compliance with international regulations. These documents collectively ensure that the mangoes meet the required quality standards and regulations for export. They are also necessary for ensuring smooth customs clearance both in India and in the importing country. Each of these documents may vary slightly based on the destination country's regulations and the specific requirements of the shipment.

Below is a list of the key export documents required for mangoes:

Commercial Invoice

• Purpose: The commercial invoice is a detailed bill for the goods sold, including a description of the mangoes, quantity, price, and the terms of sale.
• Details Included:
• Seller and buyer details
• Description of the mangoes (variety, weight, packaging)
• Terms of sale (Incoterms)
• Invoice amount
• Delivery and payment terms

Packing List

• Purpose: A packing list provides a detailed breakdown of the packing details of the mangoes, including the number of cartons, weight per carton, and type of packaging used.
• Details Included:
• Number of boxes or cartons
• Contents per box (varieties of mangoes)
• Total weight and volume of the shipment
• Packaging materials used

Phytosanitary Certificate

• Purpose: This certificate is issued by the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) or relevant authority in India. It certifies that the mangoes are free from pests and diseases and comply with the importing country’s plant health regulations.
• Details Included:
• Confirmation of the mangoes' origin
• Pest inspection results
• Compliance with the plant health standards of the destination country
• Treatment methods used (such as Hot Water Treatment)

Certificate of Origin

• Purpose: This document certifies that the mangoes originate from India. It is often required by customs in the importing country to determine the origin of the goods.
• Details Included:
• Exporter and importer details
• Details of mangoes being exported
• Origin of the goods (India)
• Signed and stamped by a Chamber of Commerce or authorized body

FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) Certificate

• Purpose: The FSSAI certificate confirms that the mangoes meet India's food safety standards and are fit for export.
• Details Included:
• Exporter’s FSSAI registration number
• Declaration of food safety compliance with Indian standards

APEDA Registration Certificate

• Purpose: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) registration is mandatory for the export of mangoes. It ensures that the exporter is registered and compliant with India’s export regulations for agricultural products.
• Details Included:
• APEDA registration number
• Exporter’s details
• Approval for exporting agricultural products like mangoes

Bill of Lading (B/L)

• Purpose: The Bill of Lading is a contract between the exporter and the carrier, indicating that the mangoes have been shipped. It serves as proof of shipment and is required for customs clearance at the destination.
• Details Included:
• Shipper and consignee details
• Description of the mangoes
• Shipping details and vessel information

Export Declaration

• Purpose: This document is submitted to the Customs Department and is a formal declaration that the mangoes are being exported. It includes information regarding the value, quantity, and classification of the goods.
• Details Included:
• Exporter's details
• HS code and description of the goods (mangoes)
• Quantity and value of the shipment
• Customs duties and taxes (if applicable)

Importer’s Customs Declaration

• Purpose: The customs declaration filed by the importer in the destination country is necessary to clear goods through customs. This form provides a detailed description of the mangoes, their origin, and their destination.
• Details Included:
• Importer’s name and details
• Information about the shipment (HS code, weight, description)
• Customs duties and taxes

Insurance Certificate

• Purpose: This certificate proves that the mangoes are insured during transit, protecting the exporter and importer in case of any damage or loss.
• Details Included:
• Policy number
• Terms and conditions of coverage
• Coverage details (damage, theft, etc.)

Hot Water Treatment (HWT) Certificate

• Purpose: This certificate confirms that the mangoes have undergone the Hot Water Treatment process (if required) to eliminate any potential pests, such as fruit flies. It is a mandatory requirement for mango exports to some countries like the US and Australia.
• Details Included:
• Details of the HWT process used (temperature and duration)
• Certification from the authorized treatment facility

Health Certificate (if applicable)

• Purpose: Some countries may require a health certificate stating that the mangoes are fit for human consumption, free from disease and pests, and properly handled.
• Details Included:
• Exporter details
• Certification of good health of the mangoes
• Compliance with international health standards

Customs Export Declaration (SED)

• Purpose: This is a document required by Indian Customs that provides details about the goods being exported. It helps in customs clearance and export control.

• Details Included:
• Exporter and consignee details
• Detailed description of the mangoes and quantity
• Value of the goods being exported

Export Incentives: The Government offers export incentives under schemes like the RODTEP and the AIR Duty Drawback, which help mango exporters compete in global markets by providing refunds on taxes and duties.

Government Initiatives:

• National Horticulture Mission (NHM): Aims to increase the production, processing, and export of mangoes.
• Agriculture Export Policy: Launched to enhance the share of agricultural exports, including mangoes.
• Development of Agri Infrastructure Fund: Financial assistance for developing infrastructure related to the production and export of mangoes.

Export Promotion Councils:

• APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) is the main body responsible for promoting mango exports.
• Mango Exporters Association of India also plays a vital role in setting standards and improving export practices.

Governing Body: Director General of Foreign Trade - DGFT regulates the export-import policies and issues export licenses for mangoes.

Challenges:

• Quality Control: Ensuring consistency in quality, especially with international standards.
• Pest Infestation: The risk of fruit fly infestations, requiring stringent post-harvest treatments.
• Logistics and Supply Chain Issues: Delays in transportation, especially air freight, can affect the freshness and quality of mangoes.
• Compliance with Different International Standards: Different countries have their own phytosanitary requirements, complicating the export process.

Way Forward:

• Technology Integration: Implementing advanced technologies such as blockchain for traceability and AI to predict demand and optimize logistics.
• Cold Chain Infrastructure: Strengthening cold storage facilities and reefer transport to improve the shelf life of mangoes.
• Research and Development: Improving mango varieties for better resistance to pests and climate change.
• Expanding Market Reach: Exploring untapped markets in Africa, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia.

Website Links:

• DGFT: https://dgft.gov.in/
• GST Portal: https://www.gst.gov.in/
• APEDA: https://apeda.gov.in/
• FSSAI: https://www.fssai.gov.in/
• Ministry of Commerce: https://commerce.gov.in/
• Indian Customs: https://www.cbic.gov.in/

Conclusion: India's mango export industry plays a crucial role in the agricultural economy. Despite challenges, the industry holds immense potential due to the high demand for Indian mangoes worldwide. With continued Government support, infrastructure development, and improved practices, India is poised to maintain its position as the world leader in mango production and export. A collective effort from the Government, exporters, and farmers will ensure the sustained growth and global recognition of Indian mangoes.

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Annexure – 1

DGFT Export Policy

Annexure – 2

AIR Duty Drawback

Annexure – 3

RODTEP Incentive – DTA Exports

Annexure – 3A

RODTEP Incentive – AA/EOU/SEZ

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