Bengal: Dark spots on Himsagar mangoes cast shadow on export shipment

Business To Business, Kolkata, 7^th June, 2026:   Exporters of West Bengal's famous Himsagar mango have expressed concern that overseas shipments may be affected this season due to a weather-related disease causing dark spots on the fruit.
The spots are believed to have developed because of continuous rainfall during the bagging stage, followed by periods of high temperatures.
According to exporters, these dark surface marks are early signs of infection, making the mangoes less suitable for export markets that demand strict quality and appearance standards.
Bagging is a common horticultural practice in which individual fruits are covered with protective bags while still growing on the tree.
Benefits include:

• Improved appearance and uniform colour.
• Protection from insects and pests.
• Reduced risk of disease.
• Lower physical damage from environmental factors.

• International buyers often impose stringent quality requirements, particularly for premium mango varieties.
• Even minor surface blemishes can lead to rejection of consignments or lower export prices.
• Exporters fear that the disease could reduce the quantity of export-grade Himsagar mangoes available this season.

• Its rich sweetness and aroma.
• Fiberless pulp.
• High demand in domestic and international markets.