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CANBERRA, April 24 (Xinhua) -- Indian mangoes will be imported into Australia for the first time after protocols were revised to allow the Asian-grown fruits into the local economy.
Indian mangoes will be allowed into Australia so long as they have been treated with irradiation before leaving India, meaning that Australians will be able to enjoy the fruit long after the local season ends.
The Australian Mango Industry Association's Robert Gray said Indian mangoes would be imported when the Australian season had finished, ensuring a constant supply for those who enjoy the golden fruit.
He added that if the Indian-sourced fruit passed all standards testing, the deal would be beneficial for Australians.
"Our position is that, as part of the global trade, if we want access to other countries around the world (to export Australian mangoes), then providing the protocol is safe and not bringing in any pests or diseases, then we're supportive of other countries having access into our market," Gray told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Monday.
Gray said that the United States has previously imported Indian mangoes with no problems, but could not predict the type of volume Australia should expect from March until July - during the Indian mango season.
"While India is a huge mango-growing country, their export business is a bit like ours," he said.
"They will be targeting affluent markets, markets where they can place small quantities of very high-value product."
"India is currently trying to ship 200 to 300 tons of mangoes to the United States a year, and it would be those sorts of volumes I would expect (in Australia)."
Meanwhile Kay Bee Exports chief executive Kaushal Khakhar - who will be sending his mangoes to Australia - said shipments would be made up of two varieties - Alphonso and Kesar.
"Alphonso is slightly tricky but handled well, it is one of the best varieties in India," he told Fresh Fruit Portal.
"Kesar is the best commercial variety because it has a good price, good flavor, and it handles very well."
