Phytosanitary Requirements for Mango Exports from India – A 2025 Practical Guide

Exporting mangoes from India is an exciting business, but it’s important to understand the phytosanitary requirements before you ship your fruit to other countries. These rules are in place to prevent pests and diseases from being transferred to foreign agricultural systems. While it may seem overwhelming, these regulations exist to ensure the mangoes you send are safe, healthy, and meet international standards. Let’s break it down and see what steps you need to follow to keep your mangoes moving smoothly to the international markets.

The first key requirement you'll encounter is the Phytosanitary Certificate. This certificate acts as a passport for your mangoes, proving they’ve been inspected and are free from harmful pests or diseases. This is a non-negotiable step, and the certificate is issued by India’s National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO). The inspection checks for the presence of pests like fruit flies, which are often a concern for importing countries. If any pests are found, your mango shipment could be delayed for treatment or even rejected at the port. The good news is that this can usually be avoided by adhering to proper pest control treatments before the inspection. Countries like the USA require Vapor Heat Treatment (VHT) to ensure no pests are present. Similarly, Australia often requires irradiation treatments. These steps not only help prevent contamination but also demonstrate to international buyers that your mangoes are safe and reliable.

Once your mangoes pass inspection, the next important document you need is the Certificate of Origin. This confirms that the mangoes were grown in India, ensuring transparency and trust with buyers in foreign markets. Countries like the USA or those in the European Union demand this certificate as part of their customs clearance process. Without it, your mangoes might face delays or even rejection at customs. It’s a relatively simple process to obtain the Certificate of Origin from either APEDA or the Chamber of Commerce, but it’s another important step to ensure your mangoes don’t face any hurdles on their journey to the international markets.

Another crucial document to keep in mind is the treatment certificate. This is required for mango exports to specific countries like the USA, Japan, and Australia, which have strict protocols to protect their agricultural systems. For example, the USA demands that mangoes undergo Vapor Heat Treatment (VHT) to eliminate any chance of fruit flies being present. This treatment must be carried out at certified facilities, and the mangoes are inspected to ensure they meet the standards. Similarly, Japan requires Hot Water Treatment and specific packaging, while Australia is known for its strict irradiation requirements. By following the treatment protocols, you not only meet these requirements but also gain the trust of international buyers who rely on your mangoes being free of harmful pests.

While these documents are critical, it’s equally important to keep the whole process organized. The key to success in mango exports is accurate, thorough documentation. Mistakes, missing papers, or incorrectly filled out forms can result in your mangoes being delayed or rejected. Keep records of the treatments, inspections, and certifications to ensure that your shipments go smoothly. Your documentation will be a reflection of your business’s professionalism and your commitment to meeting international standards.

In summary, phytosanitary requirements are a crucial part of exporting mangoes from India. From the Phytosanitary Certificate to the Certificate of Origin and the treatment certificate, these documents are not just red tape—they protect both your business and the ecosystems of importing countries. By ensuring your mangoes are inspected, treated, and certified, you’ll increase your chances of smooth, hassle-free exports. So, stay on top of these requirements, keep your paperwork organized, and ensure that your mangoes are in top condition before shipping them across the globe