As the summer draws closer, the King of fruits- Mango is set to reign over the markets once again. Mangoes in India alone boast approximately 1,300 varieties, though only about 20 are commercially cultivated.
Indian pride in its variety of mangoes can be experienced every year at Delhi’s International Mango Festival 2025, this year on 22nd July 2025, where agriculturalists from all around the country gather to showcase their unique mangoes, with native characteristics. However, the most prominent amongst all is the Alphonso Mango, bearing the crown of the King.
Alphonso mango is named after Afonso de Albuquerque, a Portuguese general and viceroy who played a key role in establishing Portuguese colonies in India during the 16th century.
The Portuguese, who ruled Goa and other parts of western India, introduced grafting techniques to improve local mango varieties. This led to the development of the Alphonso mango, which became known for its rich aroma, smooth texture, and non-fibrous, saffron-colored pulp.
The name “Alphonso” is a tribute to Albuquerque, reflecting the influence of Portuguese horticultural advancements in India.
Alphonso mangoes are regionally referred to as mangoes that are differently named in India. They are Hapus (हापूस) in Maharashtra, where they are mostly cultivated, a name used extensively in markets, especially in Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, and Devgad. They are also sometimes Apus, a short form of the name Hapus, in Goa. Although of Portuguese origin, Alphonso mangoes have been a part of Indian culture.
India, which is the world’s largest producer of mangoes, exports thousands of tons of Alphonso mangoes annually, mostly from Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Devgad, and Raigad areas. Their quality and distinct taste are considered superior to others, making them much sought after and even fetching premium prices in overseas markets. Their Geographical Indication (GI) tag, extended to Ratnagiri and Devgad Alphonso mangoes, increases their global popularity even further by guaranteeing authenticity and origin-based labeling.
India’s mango exports stood at USD 60.16 million in FY2023-24, the highest in the past five years. This positions India among the top mango-exporting countries globally.
Even though precise statistics on Alphonso mango exports are scarce, estimates indicate a significant growth pattern. With the variety’s premium status and growing demand across the globe, the exports of Alphonso mangoes are expected to touch ₹1,000 crore (approximately USD 120 million) by 2030.
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