In a country known for its love affair with mangoes — from Alphonso to Dasheri — a new contender has entered the arena: the Miyazaki mango. Originally from Japan, this flaming red, antioxidant-rich fruit is renowned not just for its striking appearance but also for its jaw-dropping price tag, fetching up to Rs 2,700 per kilogram internationally and over Rs 2,000 per kilogram in India.

What Makes Miyazaki Mangoes Special?

Unlike traditional green or yellow mangoes, Miyazaki mangoes transform from purple to a fiery red hue when ripe. This visual spectacle, paired with their health benefits — they’re packed with potassium, magnesium, beta-carotene, vitamin A, and vitamin C — has elevated them to superfood status. A few bites promise to boost immunity, enhance iron absorption, and support eye health, making them as nutritious as they are exotic.

Cultivation Challenges and Growing Demand

Despite the allure, Miyazaki mango cultivation is no easy task. The trees have low yields, producing only about a third of what regular mango trees yield. Additionally, the plants are highly susceptible to pests and diseases, demanding constant care and monitoring. Farmers like Murli from the Konkan region and Shyamali Sanyal from Pune have taken on the challenge, investing in saplings that cost between Rs 850 and Rs 1,200 each in Maharashtra — although prices in Kolkata are notably lower.

Nurseries across India are seeing a spike in demand, especially in the southern states and Gujarat. Balasaheb Dhakane, owner of Rudra Agro Nursery near Pune, reports receiving calls from across the country for saplings. Meanwhile, Nizam-ul-Haq of Bengal Traditional Nursery in Kolkata sells 2,000 to 3,000 Miyazaki saplings each month, with many mother plants originating from Bangladesh.

A Glimpse into the Future

Currently, Miyazaki mangoes are a rarity in local fruit markets due to limited commercial production. In Japan, they’re grown in controlled greenhouses, often auctioned and presented as luxury gifts. Indian farmers are optimistic that, given the country’s diverse climate and fertile soil, Miyazaki mangoes could eventually become a localized variety. Regions with suitable conditions might soon see increased production, making this coveted fruit more accessible — though it will likely retain its reputation as a premium delicacy.

For now, the Miyazaki mango stands as a symbol of prestige, luxury, and innovation in Indian agriculture — a fruit that’s more than just food; it’s a statement.