New Delhi – June 21, 2025:
In a twist fit for a royal drama, the 'queen' of mangoes — Kesar — has outshone the long-reigning 'king' — Alphonso — in the realm of Indian mango exports. A Moneycontrol analysis of export data over the past three financial years reveals that Kesar has quietly and steadily overtaken Alphonso, marking a significant shift in India’s fruit export landscape.

According to data, Kesar mango exports surged 65.7% from $6.15 million in FY22 to $10.19 million in FY25. In contrast, Alphonso exports shrank by 15%, slipping from $10.12 million in FY22 to $8.56 million in FY25.

This transformation makes Kesar the top exported mango variety from India by value as of the 2024-25 fiscal year — a development that signals shifting consumer preferences, export dynamics, and climatic impacts on regional cultivation.

What Makes Kesar a Rising Star?

Kesar mango, originating from Gujarat’s Gir region, has long held a reputation for its rich sweetness, deep saffron hue, and intense aroma. Known locally as “the queen of mangoes,” its unique sensory qualities have captured the attention of both domestic and international markets.

Experts attribute Kesar’s rising popularity to improved marketing strategies, consistent yield quality, and robust shelf life, which enhances its suitability for long-distance exports.

“Exporters are favouring Kesar due to better post-harvest handling and longer shelf stability compared to Alphonso,” said an official from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

Alphonso's Export Troubles

Alphonso, cultivated predominantly in Maharashtra’s Konkan region, has traditionally enjoyed iconic status due to its historical reputation and exquisite flavor. However, its export appeal has taken a hit due to:

• High prices, limiting its competitiveness.

• Climatic unpredictability, affecting yields.

• Short shelf life, making long-haul shipping difficult.

• Pest and disease outbreaks, especially in coastal orchards.

Traders say that Alphonso’s fragile nature makes it less attractive to overseas buyers who now seek more resilient alternatives.

“Alphonso remains a premium fruit, but for export markets demanding consistency and value, Kesar is emerging as the more reliable variety,” said a Mumbai-based fruit exporter.

Export Preferences Shifting

The evolution in export rankings also points to changing preferences in global markets, particularly in the Middle East, UK, and US, which are major importers of Indian mangoes. Kesar’s success reflects India’s growing adaptability in meeting these market demands.

While Alphonso still commands a cult following and is prized in boutique fruit markets, the scale and speed of Kesar's rise suggest a more commercial approach that balances quality with export logistics.

Gujarat’s Mango Moment

The Gujarat government has been actively promoting Kesar mangoes, including obtaining Geographical Indication (GI) tags, enhancing export infrastructure, and providing support to farmers with pre-cooling units, packhouses, and better irrigation support.

This government-backed focus, along with favorable climate conditions in the Gir region, has allowed farmers to expand their Kesar orchards and achieve higher per-acre yields, further fuelling the export boom.

What Lies Ahead?

As the world’s appetite for mangoes grows, India — the largest mango producer globally — is positioning itself to cater to shifting trends. The Kesar takeover may just be the beginning of a broader export diversification strategy.

Analysts suggest that varieties like Banganapalli, Dasheri, and Langra are also gaining export traction due to their robustness and availability.

“Kesar has become the face of India’s mango exports for now. But this dynamic market could see more surprises ahead,” said a senior official at the Ministry of Commerce.

Conclusion

The coronation of Kesar mango as India’s top export marks a pivotal moment in the country’s agri-export story. With changing climates, market demands, and consumer tastes, the so-called “queen of mangoes” has firmly taken the throne — at least for now — from its more aristocratic rival, Alphonso.

India’s mango export crown may no longer rest solely on heritage and prestige, but on adaptability, consistency, and market readiness.

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