Kathmandu: Nepal has restricted the import of mangoes from India, citing concerns over excessive pesticide residues in the fruit and the absence of adequate quarantine facilities at border points, officials have said.
The move has led to an increased presence of locally grown mangoes in Nepalese markets during the peak summer season when demand for the fruit is at its highest.
According to officials, the restriction was imposed because imported mangoes were allegedly found to contain pesticide levels beyond acceptable limits. Authorities also pointed to insufficient quarantine infrastructure, particularly in border regions of Madhesh Province, as a key reason behind the decision.
The ban has been welcomed by local farmers, who now face less competition from imported produce. Ajaya Gyawali, Information Officer at the Ministry of Land Management, Agriculture and Cooperatives of Madhesh Province, said the restriction has provided a boost to domestic mango cultivation.
“It has promoted local production, which is a positive development,” Gyawali said.
However, he acknowledged that Nepal’s domestic production may not be sufficient to meet nationwide demand. The districts of Siraha, Saptari and Dhanusha in Madhesh Province are among the country’s major mango-producing regions.
Mango production in Nepal is largely seasonal, running from mid-May to mid-July. Experts warn that the import restriction could also affect industries dependent on mango supplies, including fruit juice manufacturers and food processing units.
Traders have expressed concern over the potential impact on supply and prices. They argue that Indian mango imports are essential to meet consumer demand throughout the year, as Nepal’s domestic production is limited to a short harvest season.
Bhuvaneshwar Purbe, General Secretary of the Fruit and Vegetable Traders’ Association in Janakpurdham, said a complete halt to imports could create shortages in the market. He suggested that instead of imposing a blanket restriction, the government should strengthen quarantine and testing systems to allow safe imports after proper quality checks.
According to traders, more than 50 tonnes of mangoes are supplied from neighbouring districts to Janakpurdham and then distributed to Kathmandu and other parts of the country. Even with this supply, they believe local production alone may not be enough to satisfy demand.
Market participants have also warned of rising prices if the restriction continues. Mangoes currently sell for around NPR 100 to 150 per kilogram in Kathmandu, but traders expect prices to climb further in the coming weeks.
Consumers have already pointed to a similar trend in the banana market. Following restrictions on banana imports from India, prices have reportedly risen from NPR 120-150 per dozen last year to around NPR 250-300 per dozen.
The government has yet to indicate whether the restriction will be temporary or remain in place until improved quarantine measures are introduced.
