Maldaha Mango Prices Double as Supply Declines, Farmers Demand Fair Returns
Shrinking production has driven up Maldaha mango prices in Madhesh, but farmers say traders—not producers—are benefiting from the surge.
The market price of Maldaha mangoes in Madhesh Province has doubled as production declines and supplies begin to run out. While consumers are paying significantly higher prices, farmers say they are not receiving a fair share of the increase. Two weeks ago, around 2.5 kilograms of Maldaha mangoes sold for Rs 100, but the price has now risen to Rs 100 per kilogram. Farmers claim traders are purchasing mangoes at low prices from orchards and selling them at much higher rates in the market, prompting calls for stronger market monitoring, price regulation, cold storage facilities, and processing centers. Farmers also say the ongoing paddy transplantation season has forced them to sell their produce quickly, allowing traders to take advantage of the situation. They argue that the lack of organized markets, storage infrastructure, and processing facilities has weakened their bargaining power and reduced their earnings despite soaring retail prices. According to mango traders, the Bombay variety has nearly disappeared from the market, while Maldaha mangoes are expected to remain available for only about 10 more days, after which Kalkatta and Amrapali varieties will enter the market.