In a major initiative to boost the global profile of Indian mangoes, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, organized a vibrant mango promotion programme titled ‘Indian Mango Mania 2025’ in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The event, held in collaboration with the Embassy of India in the UAE and the Lulu Group, is part of APEDA’s ongoing efforts to enhance exports of Indian agricultural products, particularly mangoes, to key global markets.
The festival was officially inaugurated at LuLu Hypermarket, Khalidiyah Mall, by Shri Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE, alongside Shri Yusuff Ali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group. Other dignitaries present included Shri Rohit Mishra, Counsellor (Trade & Investment) at the Indian Embassy; Dr. C.B. Singh, Deputy General Manager of APEDA; and senior representatives from Lulu Group and APEDA.
Showcasing India’s Mango Heritage
‘Indian Mango Mania 2025’ featured an impressive display of premium Indian mango varieties, many of which are Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged and represent the unique agricultural richness of various Indian states. Mangoes on display included Banarasi Langda, Dasheri, Chausa, Sunderja, Amrapali, Malda, Bharat Bhog, Prabha Shankar, Lakshman Bhog, Mahmood Bahar, Vrindavani, Fasli, and Mallika—sourced from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh.
Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir lauded the role of LuLu Group in promoting Indian fresh produce globally. “Through this festival, the freshness and richness of Indian mangoes will reach thousands of households across the Gulf, strengthening trade and cultural ties between India and the UAE,” he said.
Chairman Yusuff Ali M.A. reaffirmed Lulu’s commitment to supporting Indian agricultural exports. “Lulu is proud to be a trusted partner in showcasing the best of India to the world. Our retail chains across the UAE and Gulf serve as a global platform for Indian farmers and producers,” he said.
From India, APEDA Chairman Shri Abhishek Dev extended his message, emphasizing the authority’s commitment to boosting exports of high-value horticultural products. “APEDA has facilitated the airlifting of premium mango varieties, opening up new opportunities for Indian farmers and strengthening our presence in global markets,” he noted.
A Mango-Themed Culinary Experience
In addition to fresh mango displays, the event featured a wide range of mango-based culinary creations from both traditional Indian and global cuisines. Highlights included:
- Bakery & Desserts: Mango pastries, Swiss rolls, macaroons, doughnuts, cakes, and mango bread
- Traditional Indian Dishes: Mambazha payasam, mango pulao, mango fish curry, mango chutney, and kichadi
- Snacks & Salads: Mango fritters, chaat, raita, and tropical fruit salads
- Fusion Cuisine: Mango sushi, mango-stuffed chicken, and mango chapli kebabs
- Pickles & Preserves: Mango-dates pickle, garlic mango pickle, Kashmiri-style pickles
- Beverages: Fresh mango juices, smoothies, jams, jellies, and pulps
A Growing Market for Indian Mangoes
The UAE continues to be the top export destination for Indian mangoes. In 2024 alone, India exported over 12,000 metric tonnes of mangoes to the UAE, valued at USD 20 million, reflecting strong consumer demand and growing appreciation for India’s mango heritage.
Strengthening Agri-Export Ecosystem
APEDA reiterated its commitment to expanding India’s agri-export footprint by improving market access for FPOs, FPCs, and agricultural exporters. The organization aims to position India as a global leader in high-quality, diverse, and sustainable agricultural products, with mangoes as a flagship export category.
‘Indian Mango Mania 2025’ serves as a celebration of India’s rich mango diversity and a strategic move toward expanding global reach for Indian horticulture combining trade, tradition, and taste in a single initiative.
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