Mangosteen, long celebrated in Southeast Asia as the “Queen of Fruits,” is experiencing a surge in global demand, particularly in Western markets. This boom is now picking pace in India, with farmers in Kerala, Southern Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu rapidly expanding Mangosteen cultivation. Notably, Mangosteen is now outpacing avocado in terms of popularity and profitability both internationally and domestically.
The fruit is prized for its sweet, juicy, and tangy flavor, often described as a mix of lychee, peach, strawberry, and pineapple. It has a deep reddish-purple rind and white edible flesh inside. In India, it is gaining popularity both as a fresh fruit and as a specialty product in gourmet markets.
What Makes It A Perfect Match for India?
Mangosteen thrives in warm, humid, tropical climates with temperatures , high humidity, and well-distributed rainfall making it a perfect match for coastal areas of Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.
Ideal Weather Conditions for Mangosteen Growth in India :
- Temperature: 22°C to 35°C; avoid below 5°C or above 40°C
- Humidity: High (above 80%)
- Rainfall: Around 2000 mm annually, well-distributed with a short dry period
- Sunlight: At least 6 hours daily, can tolerate partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy loam, pH 5.5–7.0
Mangosteen thrives in warm, humid tropical climates with consistent moisture and fertile soil.

Comparison Table: Mangosteen vs Avocado in India
Aspect | Mangosteen | Avocado |
---|---|---|
Origin | Southeast Asia | Central & South America |
Key Growing Regions | Kerala, Southern Karnataka, Tamil Nadu | Coorg (Karnataka), select southern states |
Market Price (India) | ₹500/kg | Premium, but less than mangosteen |
Market Price (US) | Up to ₹4,000/kg | High, but mangosteen now surpasses |
Export Demand | Soaring, surpassing avocado | Growing, but not as rapid as mangosteen |
Farmer Interest | Farms being converted to mangosteen | Increasing, but at a slower pace |
Health Perception | Superfood, rich in antioxidants | Superfood, heart-healthy fats, vitamins |
Value-Added Products | Powders, sauces, dips (rising) | Guacamole, spreads, oils |
Yield per Mature Tree | Up to 350kg/year (35 yrs), 1 tonne (100 yrs) | High, but varies by variety and care |
Farmer’s Shift
Indian farmers are increasingly converting entire farms to mangosteen cultivation due to its high profitability and strong global demand. A mature mangosteen tree, around 35 years old, can yield about 350 kg of fruit in a peak harvest, generating over ₹1 lakh in revenue from just one tree. With premium prices both domestically and internationally, especially in Western markets, mangosteen offers farmers a lucrative long-term investment. This potential for substantial returns within a decade is driving many farmers in Kerala, Southern Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu to shift from traditional crops to mangosteen plantations, capitalizing on the fruit’s growing popularity and export opportunities.
Avocado’s Status in India
Avocado has seen a steady rise in popularity, especially among urban, health-conscious consumers. It is now grown in regions like Coorg, Karnataka, and is becoming a staple in modern Indian diets, featured in everything from smoothies to curries. However, the pace of adoption and export growth for avocado currently lags behind the explosive trajectory seen with mangosteen.
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