Ban on Indian mango imports to EU to be lifted

A BAN on Indian mango imports into the European Union is to be lifted, clearing the way for them to return to the UK and other member states.

However, other foodstuffs such as Indian aubergines, two types of squash, and a type of leaf used in cooking will remain restricted.

Indian mango shipments to the EU were suspended in May after fruit flies were found in consignments.

A European Commission committee voted to lift the ban on Tuesday.

There had been “significant improvements” in India’s mango export system, the European Commission said after the unanimous vote.

The UK government previously said it was working towards the ban being lifted and was one of the member states that participated in the vote to lift the ban.

“We have been working closely with our Indian and European counterparts to resolve the issue as quickly as possible and I am pleased that trade in mangoes will resume,” said the minister for the natural environment, Lord de Mauley.

“Today’s decision demonstrates the marked improvements India has made to its export system and it is important that these standards are maintained so that trade can continue and UK plant health remains protected,” he said.

Imports will start again in about a month’s time, once new EU legislation has been formally adopted and published by the European Commission.