India, the global leader in mango production, has been making significant strides in expanding its footprint in premium markets like the United States. Backed by regulatory rigor, quality compliance, and strategic partnerships, India’s mango exports to the US have shown remarkable growth. However, a recent operational hiccup highlighted the critical role of compliance infrastructure—particularly in irradiation processing.
Stellar Export Growth to the US
India’s mango exports to the United States saw a dramatic 130% growth in FY24, reaching $10.01 million, up from $4.36 million in FY23. This rise underscores the growing demand for Indian mangoes in high-value markets and the efficiency of the export ecosystem despite regulatory and phytosanitary requirements.
Irradiation: The Compliance Backbone
A vital step for US-bound mangoes is irradiation, which ensures the fruit is pest-free and shelf-stable for long-distance shipping. This process is mandatory under the Cooperative Service Agreement between India’s APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) and the USDA’s APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service).
In May 2025, a data recording error at a key Mumbai-based irradiation facility led to the rejection of 12 consignments by US authorities. However, the disruption was quickly addressed, with operations resuming normalcy from May 10, and other facilities remained unaffected.
Export and Processing Protocol
The mango export process to the US involves a carefully regulated sequence of steps to meet APHIS standards:
Step-by-Step Processing for Export
- Procurement: From registered and certified farms only.
- Grading & Sorting: Conducted at APEDA/NPPO-approved packhouses.
- Hot Water Treatment: Eliminates surface-level pests and fungi.
- Irradiation: Performed at USDA-approved facilities using ionizing radiation to:
- Eliminate hidden pests.
- Extend shelf life.
- Quality Control: Final checks to ensure regulatory and quality compliance before packaging and shipment.
India’s Global Mango Export Performance
India contributes approximately 43% to global mango production, ranking as the sixth-largest mango exporter worldwide. Between FY21 and FY24, India’s total mango exports rose from $36.22 million to $60.14 million.
During the April–February period of FY25, 48 countries received Indian mangoes, with the UAE and the US being the top destinations.
Summary Table: Key Data on India’s Mango Exports to the US
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| FY24 Exports to US | $10.01 million (↑ 130% from FY23’s $4.36 million) |
| Global Production Share | ~43% |
| Total Mango Exports (FY21 → FY24) | $36.22M → $60.14M |
| Top Export Destinations (FY25) | UAE, United States |
| Disruption Incident | Data error in Mumbai facility (May 2025); 12 consignments rejected |
| Operational Status | Resumed normal from May 10, 2025 |
| Export Processing Steps | Registered sourcing → Grading → Hot water treatment → Irradiation → QC |
| Regulatory Oversight | Cooperative Service Agreement between APEDA & USDA-APHIS |
| No. of Export Destinations | 48 countries |
Conclusion
India’s journey in mango exports to the US reflects a balance of market opportunity and regulatory sophistication. While recent disruptions underscore the sensitivity of compliance processes like irradiation, the swift restoration of operations is a testament to India’s robust export framework.
With growing demand, enhanced infrastructure, and increased farmer registration, India is well-positioned to sustain and scale its presence in the US mango market—cementing its global leadership not just in production but also in quality-driven exports.
Glottis Limited 
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