News: Indian mangoes finally head for US

(IANS 26/04/2007) New Delhi - The first consignment of Indian mangoes Friday headed for the US after a long ban on the produce imposed on grounds that the production method did not conform to US norms was lifted by Washington. This was followed by a meeting between Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath and US trade representative Susan Schwab in which both the governments reached a consensus of passing the mangoes through a radiation test as per US norms. The first shipment consisted of 150 boxes of mangoes of different varieties. In return, India has allowed to sell US-made Harley Davidson bikes that was earlier not allowed on Indian roads as it does not meet Indian emission standards. India will initially be exporting mangoes of such varieties as Alphonso, Banganpalli and Kesar while other varieties such as Langra, Chausa, Mallika, Dussheri will be exported during the latter part of the mango season, an official statement said. "We have followed through on President Bush's pledge to open US markets to Indian mangoes, an important national symbol in India," said US ambassador to India David C. Mulford. "Bringing Indian mangoes to US is just one step in increasing agricultural trade between US and India," Mulford added. Demand for mangoes in the US is strong, with a market size estimated at about 250,000 tonnes. Currently, Mexico is the main exporter of mangoes to the US. According to the statement, opening of US market for Indian mangoes will enhance the business opportunity for Indian mango producers.