U.S. mango imports are projected to grow roughly 7% in 2026, fueled by stronger per capita consumption, year-round availability, and active retail promotions. India, a key supplier, is well-positioned to capture that demand — but rising air freight costs are squeezing exporters and threatening to make Indian mangoes less price-competitive in the American market.
Air freight is essentially the only viable transport option for premium Indian varieties like Alphonso, which are highly perishable and time-sensitive. When those costs go up, exporters either absorb the hit or pass it on — and in a competitive import market, neither option is clean. This creates an opening for other origin countries to gain shelf space if Indian pricing becomes untenable.
Buyers sourcing Indian mangoes should be having conversations with their partners now about cost-sharing and pricing structures for the season. If freight costs don't stabilize, expect tighter margins or reduced availability of premium Indian varieties in the U.S.