Key facts
- Nepal has clarified that there is no ban on Indian mango imports.
- Recent border restrictions are phytosanitary measures to prevent pest entry.
- The measures comply with the Plant Quarantine and Protection Act and international biosecurity practices.
- Mandatory treatment includes water immersion at 48°C for one hour.
- Import permits are issued based on phytosanitary certificates from India's NPPO.
Nepal's Ministry of Agriculture, Forests and Environment has officially refuted reports of a ban on Indian mango imports, clarifying that recent border restrictions are purely technical measures intended to prevent the entry of high-risk pests. The Plant Quarantine and Pesticide Management Centre (PQPMC), acting as Nepal's National Plant Protection Organisation (NPPO), explained that the measures were implemented following a Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) in compliance with the Plant Quarantine and Protection Act of 2064.
The PQPMC stated that phytosanitary measures, such as freedom from certain pests and mandatory treatment of mangoes in water at 48°C for one hour, have been adopted as per international practice. Import permits are being issued as requested, and release orders are being granted based on phytosanitary certificates issued by India's NPPO.
This clarification follows concerns raised by fruit traders in Janakpurdham who had reported disruptions to supply chains due to earlier restrictions. The Nepali government aims to stabilize the supply chain and reassure the market by reaffirming that trade remains open, provided shipments meet the specified phytosanitary standards.