Indian mango shipments rejected by US! The United States has rejected 15 shipments of Indian mangoes due to inconsistencies in radiation treatment documentation, leading to significant financial repercussions. The consignments, treated in Mumbai on May 8 and 9, were denied entry at Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Atlanta airports after U.S. inspectors identified irregularities in mandatory paperwork.
Strict Phytosanitary Requirements
Radiation treatment is a phytosanitary requirement for U.S. imports, ensuring mangoes are pest-free and have a longer shelf life. However, discrepancies in certification details led to the rejection, leaving exporters with two options: destroy the produce or return it to India. Most opted to discard the cargo, incurring losses estimated at $500,000 (₹41.5 crore).
Exporters Voice Frustration
Exporters voiced frustration over the financial hit, stressing that irradiation is a routine procedure to meet global safety standards. The incident underscores the stringent adherence required for international trade protocols, where even minor documentation errors can result in costly consequences.
Importance of Compliance
This episode highlights the critical role of precise compliance in cross-border trade, serving as a cautionary tale for exporters navigating complex regulatory landscapes.
Indian mango shipments rejected by US
Why Radiation Treatment Is Crucial
For mangoes to enter the U.S. market, they must undergo radiation treatment, a phytosanitary requirement to ensure the fruit is pest-free and has an extended shelf life. While this treatment was completed, mismatches in certification led to rejection. Exporters were forced to either return the fruit to India or destroy it, with most choosing the latter. The total financial loss is estimated at $500,000 (₹41.5 crore).
Exporters Raise Concerns
Several Indian exporters have expressed frustration, emphasizing that irradiation is a standard practice. They highlighted that such strict enforcement on minor documentation errors can be devastating, especially for seasonal fruit exports. This incident sheds light on the stringent regulations involved in international trade, where precision in paperwork is as important as the product itself.
The Need for Better Compliance
This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate documentation in global commerce. It also calls for better coordination among certifying agencies, exporters, and government bodies to prevent such costly mistakes in the future.
