In a landmark development for Uttar Pradesh’s mango sector a 1,200 kg consignment of Dussehri mangoes has been exported to Dubai marking the first ever commercial shipment handled directly by local Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Dispatched via air cargo to Vergro Trading LLC,.
The shipment, comprising 400 carefully packed boxes, was flagged off from Lucknow’s Mango Pack House by Horticulture Minister Dinesh Pratap Singh. This milestone marks completion of nearly two years of preparation under the Indo-German Agricultural Market Development (AMD) Project, which provided FPOs with technical training in international standards for harvesting, post-harvest handling, packing, and documentation.
Two FPOs, Irada Farmers Producer Company Limited and Malihabad Farmer Producer Company Limited, managed the export process from start to finish. Thanks to their training, the mangoes met all phytosanitary and quality requirements of the UAE market.
UP which is India’s largest mango-producing state, recorded an output of 4.8 million metric tonnes in 2024–25. Traditionally, mango exports from the region were routed through intermediaries, but this direct shipment opens a new chapter by placing farmers at the forefront of international trade. Officials highlight that while the current export volume accounts for only 0.025% of total production, the economic benefit is substantial standing at ₹208 per kg, the export price is more than double the domestic rate of ₹60–80/kg.
This pilot shipment could pave the way for a wider export network. If the mangoes pass Dubai's quality inspections, weekly exports may scale up to 5,000 kg. Other varieties such as Chausa and Langra are also being considered for future shipments, extending the model's reach.
To maintain fruit quality, a 48 hour cold chain was maintained from the orchard to Dubai retailers. State officials see this success as not just a boost for mango farmers, but a template for elevating Uttar Pradesh’s presence in global horticulture markets.
