Last Tuesday, Fresh fruit firm IG International announced they would be importing Alphonso mangoes from South Africa in order to be able to cater to the domestic market in the ongoing festive season.

The Alphonso is renowned for its rich yellow colour, creamy texture, juicy taste and sweet fragrance. From the conventional way of savouring it to culinary options such as sherbets and ice cream.

India is the biggest producer of mangoes across the world, accounting for around 52% of the world’s production. While the country is predominantly famous in the international market for exporting this fruit, IG International has announced the import of a three varieties of mangoes from South Africa, keeping in mind its seasonal nature and non-availability in India at this time of the year.

Economictimes.indiatimes.com quoted Tarun Arora, Director, Finance and Operations of IG International as saying: “Alphonso is the most popular variety of mangoes and therefore, is a prized commodity in the international trade market. India’s love for this fruit is no hidden fact. We at IG International understand how everyone yearns for this seasonal fruit throughout the year, especially during joyous occasions such as Diwali when they wish to offer these to the God and relish them later. In order to cater to the country’s mango cravings especially during this festive season, we decided to introduce the Alphonso variety."