ICAR-CISH and APEDA validate 25-day sea freight protocol, reducing logistics costs and improving returns for mango growers

Key Highlights

• 12.5 tonnes of Dashehari and Langra mangoes exported to Dubai
• First successful commercial sea shipment from Uttar Pradesh
• Nearly 90% fruit reached destination in marketable condition
• Sea freight offers ₹15–20 per kg higher returns for farmers
• Protocol jointly developed by ICAR-CISH and APEDA
• Could significantly expand India’s mango exports to Gulf markets

India has achieved a significant breakthrough in fresh fruit exports after successfully shipping 12.5 tonnes of premium Dashehari and Langra mangoes from Uttar Pradesh to Dubai through a scientifically validated sea-route protocol developed by ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture (ICAR-CISH) and APEDA.

The shipment, exported through a 40-foot refrigerated container, travelled for 25 days under a continuous cold chain while maintaining nearly 90% marketable quality, demonstrating that premium Indian mangoes can now be exported economically by sea instead of relying solely on expensive air freight.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the successful commercial trial is expected to lower export logistics costs while enabling exporters to offer farmers ₹15–20 per kilogram higher procurement prices.

The protocol includes scientific post-harvest handling, METWASH treatment developed by ICAR-CISH, grading, cold-chain management and reefer container transportation.

Officials believe the breakthrough could accelerate exports from Uttar Pradesh and other mango-producing states to Gulf markets and beyond, strengthening India’s position in global fresh fruit exports.

Hospitality & Tourism Impact

For hotels, resorts and premium restaurants across the Gulf, improved sea-route logistics can ensure a more consistent supply of premium Indian mangoes at competitive prices.

The development also strengthens India’s image as a global supplier of high-quality fresh produce, supporting culinary tourism, luxury hospitality, food festivals and international sourcing of seasonal Indian fruits.