Restriction follows Japan’s recent halt on Indian mango imports and could affect trade in premium varieties while pushing up prices in Nepal
Nepal has imposed a ban on the import of Indian mangoes after authorities detected excessive pesticide residues and highlighted shortcomings in quarantine facilities along the border. The restriction, introduced by Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, has reportedly been in force since April-May.
According to officials, inspections carried out by border quarantine authorities found pesticide levels exceeding acceptable limits in imported mangoes. The government also cited the lack of adequate quarantine infrastructure, particularly in the Madhesh Province bordering India, as a factor behind the decision.
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The move comes just weeks after Japan suspended imports of several Indian mango varieties, including Alphonso, Kesar, Langra and Banganapalli, following the discovery of irregularities at treatment and production facilities in India
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Japanese inspectors reportedly identified deficiencies in fumigation and disinfection procedures during a visit to Uttar Pradesh earlier this year
While Nepal is a mango-producing country, local output is insufficient to meet year-round demand. Major growing districts such as Siraha, Saptari and Dhanusha supply fruit between mid-May and mid-July, but traders say imports from India play a crucial role in maintaining supplies across the country.
Nepalese officials argue that the restriction will encourage domestic production and provide consumers with safer produce. However, traders have warned that the ban could lead to shortages and higher prices. Mangoes currently retail at around NPR 100-150 per kilogram in Kathmandu, but industry representatives fear prices could rise sharply if imports remain suspended.
The restriction may also affect businesses that rely on mangoes, including juice manufacturers and food processors.
For India, the immediate economic impact is expected to be limited, as Nepal is not among its largest export destinations. India produces around 24 million metric tonnes of mangoes annually, with only a small proportion exported. Nevertheless, the latest restrictions have raised concerns about quality-control standards and pesticide management in the country’s fruit export sector.
The ban is also a setback for exporters of premium Indian mango varieties, already facing challenges from disruptions in key overseas markets.
