Israel, Iran war affects mango trading in Jagtial

Trading activity in the Jagtial mango market has slowed significantly as north Indian traders stay away due to poor-quality fruit and reduced export demand amid the Iran-Israel conflict. Farmers are facing losses as mango prices and transportation demand continue to decline

Jagtial: Trading in the Jagtial mango market, one of the biggest mango markets in the State, is witnessing a sluggish trend as north Indian traders are not showing much interest in buying the fruit. Poor-quality fruit and the Iran-Israel war are said to be the reasons for outside traders staying away from the market.

Traders from north India, especially Delhi, usually visit the Jagtial market during the season every year and purchase large-sized and best-quality fruits. After grading the mangoes, Delhi traders used to export the fruits to Dubai, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iran and other Gulf countries.

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However, in the wake of the Israel-Iran war, export of goods has been affected. At the same time, demand for mangoes has also come down in northern states. Small-sized and poor-quality fruits are other reasons for traders staying away from the market.

Mango orchards were attacked by insects due to unseasonal rains and changing climatic conditions. Though it is a common problem, the damage is severe this time. Subsequently, mangoes have not grown to their usual size of 250 to 300 grams each. Moreover, black spots have appeared on the fruits due to insect attacks. As a result, north Indian traders are not showing much interest even a month after the market opened.

Every day, 40 to 50 lorries used to transport mangoes to north Indian states. However, the number has now come down to 10 to 15 lorries. Though Rs 45 to Rs 50 is the average price per kg for best-quality mangoes, traders are paying between Rs 30 and Rs 35. If the fruits have black spots and are small in size, the price is reduced further.

As a result, mango farmers, who spent huge amounts on spraying pesticides to protect the crop from insects, are facing hardship due to poor prices for their produce.