East Lancashire residents celebrate as EU ban on Indian mango imports lifted

Sanctions on the Alphonso and Kaser varieties of mangoes were imposed by the EU in May, and were due to last until December 2015, amid fears that shipments could be infested with fruit flies that could damage European salad crops.

But a European Commission committee voted unanimously to lift the ban on Tuesday, after “significant improvements” were made to India’s mango export system.

The Alphonso variety of mango, is a favourite among many mango-lovers, and is only available for a few weeks every year.

But imports of other foodstuffs, including Indian aubergines, two types of squash, and a type of leaf used in cooking will remain restricted.

Blackburn shopkeeper Suleman Khonat, who represents retailers in the area, said: “First of all, I’m a mango lover myself so I was pleased to hear the ban had been lifted.

“I think it’s good for a number of reasons.

“It’s beneficial for shopkeepers, who have lost lot of business because of the mango ban, and also for customers, for people who love mangoes.

“But it’s also good for the mango planters in India – the mango ban cost them a lot.”

“It’s nice to know that we’re going to be seeing mangoes on the streets of Blackburn again.”

Former Blackburn mayor and self-confessed mango enthusiast Salim Mulla said the lifting of the ban was currently the hottest topic of conversation among the Asian community.

He said: “Everyone is now excited in the community about the lifting of the ban.

“My daughters and my brother rang me when the ban was lifted.

“Everybody is absolutely delighted.

“They can’t wait for mangoes to arrive here, and to enjoy the beautiful sweet, sweet taste.”

Mohammed Ziafat, partner at PK Foods in Audley, said: “I think it’s very good news because it will bring more business to us, more money to the growers, and the customers will have a better choice.

“People really like the Indian mangoes.”