Mangoes from Pakistan are renowned for their excellence and have become a coveted fruit in the United States.
Known for their sweetness and rich nutritional content, these mangoes boast a variety of types, such as the Sindhri, Chaunsa, Langra, and Anwar Ratol. Pakistan’s favorable climate contributes to the production of over 1.8 million tons of mangoes annually, making it a top exporter globally.
The significant Pakistani-American community, which numbers over half a million, yearns for a taste of home, creating a robust market for Pakistani mangoes in the U.S.
This article aims to navigate the complexities of the import process, discussing the necessary steps, regulations related to irradiation treatments both in Pakistan and the U.S., and the associated costs to fulfill this demand successfully.
For those interested in tapping into this market, understanding the import requirements and procedures is essential.
Import Requirements for Pakistani Mangoes
Common Steps to Importing Mangoes from Pakistan to USA
To import mangoes from Pakistan, certain steps are mandatory:
- Registered Production: Mangoes must come from a registered farm and packing house.
- FDA Registration: Importers register on the FDA website to obtain a registration number.
- Permits and Agreement: Secure an APHIS-PPQ import permit and sign a USDA/APHIS compliance agreement.
- Packaging: Use APHIS approved, pest-proof packaging.
- Consignment Exportation: Ship the mango consignment from Pakistan to the USA.
Irradiation of Mangoes in Pakistan
When irradiation is done in Pakistan, the import process involves:
- Inspections and Certification: The consignment is inspected, and a phytosanitary certificate from NPPO Pakistan is required.
- US Port Inspection: Upon arrival, CBP officers inspect to confirm compliance with all regulations.
- Commercial Release: Following verification, the mangoes are released for sale.
Irradiation of Mangoes in USA
Irradiation in the USA necessitates extra steps:
- Phytosanitary Certification: A certificate from NPPO Pakistan must accompany the consignment.
- Marking for Irradiation: The consignment must have visible signs indicating it’s for irradiation in the USA.
- Document Verification: CBP officers check the consignment against regulatory requirements.
- Letter of Guarantee: An exporter-sent letter must confirm compliance with FDA regulations, sent to the irradiation facility before arrival.
- Transport: The consignment must travel through approved routes to the irradiation facility.
- Irradiation Process: Irradiation takes 4-6 hours, after which mangoes can be sold commercially.
Cost
- Purchase Price: Initial cost for the mangoes.
- Irradiation Treatment: Necessary for US import approval.
- Packaging: Must meet FDA regulations.
- Inspection Fees: For compliance with standards.
- Permits & Certificates: Includes phytosanitary and APHIS permits.
- Custom Duties: Taxes levied on imported goods.
- Shipping Costs: Variable based on distance and logistics.
Conclusion
The import process of Pakistani mangoes into the U.S. involves several regulatory requirements. Utilizing online platforms simplifies these procedures, particularly when mangoes undergo irradiation in Pakistan at certified facilities. Despite the various expenses involved, engaging in mango importation represents a promising commercial venture.
Key Takeaways:
- Mango imports are subject to strict regulations.
- Online resources streamline compliance.
- Pre-shipment irradiation in Pakistan is advantageous.
- The business holds potential despite associated costs.