Due to the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, sea exports have been suspended, forcing a shift to air transportation for all exports. This shift has resulted in a notable increase in air traffic and a consequent 25% rise in airfares. Officials from the Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board have reported difficulties in securing the expected mango export quotas from air transport companies, despite exporters' willingness to pay elevated rates.
Maharashtra's mango production, particularly of the Alphonso variety, has been strong this year, with an export target of 5,000 tons set by the Marketing Board. However, this goal is now in jeopardy, as only 625 tons had been exported by April 23, a figure significantly lower than the anticipated 1,200 tons. The conflict has led to a prioritization of non-perishable goods over perishables like mangoes in air transport, despite a high demand and adequate supply of export-quality mangoes in Maharashtra.
As of April 23, the Export Facilitation Center at Vashi reported exports totaling 625 tons to various countries, with the export season scheduled to continue until June 30. The majority of these exports consist of the Hapus variety, followed by other varieties such as Gir Kesar, Banganapalle, and Badami. The conflict's impact on exports underscores the challenges faced in meeting export targets amidst increased transportation costs and allocation issues.
Source: punekarnews.in