A cold winter and unseasonable rains have led to a severe shortage of India's prized Alphonso mangoes, particularly in Mumbai. Prices have doubled from 2010, with boxes of a dozen now selling for up to 2,500 rupees ($56).
The Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board reports that production has dropped by around 30% of the normal yield, adversely affecting exports. Experts attribute the decline to a harsh winter in the Konkan region, where temperatures dipped below 17-18°C for 65 days between December and February, disrupting the fertilisation process.
India is the world's largest mango producer, with nearly 13 million tonnes annually, about 40% of global output. Maharashtra is a key producer. The Alphonso, known locally as 'the king of fruits', is hugely popular overseas, especially in the Middle East, Europe, and the US.
Dr Vivek Bhide, who exports Alphonsos to the US and Singapore, said only 10% of the normal yield was achieved. He noted, 'I have been in this business for 30 years, yet I have never experienced this kind of shortage before.' He was unable to complete export orders due to unavailability.
Food inflation in India currently stands at 9.18%, as the country balances inflation with economic expansion. However, manufacturers of mango-based products remain confident that business will not be affected despite higher prices and shortages. The bad weather has also hit India's onion crop, leading to higher prices and shortages of this staple food.
