PANAJI
Prices of Goa’s prized 'malcorado' mango have begun to soften as growers harvest their first crop and push supplies into local markets. Yet, the fruit continues to command a premium.
On Tuesday evening, retailers in Panaji quoted the larger, high-quality fruit at Rs 4,000 per dozen. Medium-sized mangoes were priced at Rs 3,000, while smaller ones hovered around Rs 2,000. Some sellers were willing to bargain down to Rs 1,800 per dozen. Yesterday, retailers were quoting the bigger malcorado mangoes at Rs 5,000 per dozen.
Agriculture officers say the overall outlook for this year’s mango crop is positive. “Flowering has been good and initial harvests are encouraging,” said an officer from the Agriculture department. “If weather conditions remain stable, yields should be satisfactory,” he said.
But farmers remain cautious and many fear that unpredictable pre-monsoon showers could trigger premature fruit drop. “One heavy spell at the wrong time can undo months of effort. We are hopeful, but the skies worry us,” said a grower from Old Goa.
According to Nestor Rangel, who owns a mixed-crop orchard of mango and cashew in Sattari, his farm is experiencing 'fruit drop' in the mango orchard. "The problem is compounded by monkeys," Rangel said.
The malcorado, known for its rich flavour and smooth texture, is a sought-after summer delicacy in Goa. Its high price reflects both demand and limited availability.
With more orchards expected to release harvests to the local markets in the coming weeks, traders anticipate further easing of rates. But still, consumers may not see drastic reductions. “Premium varieties will always be expensive,” explained another agriculture officer, adding that the market adjusts, but quality fruit retains its value.
For now, Goa's mango lovers are paying steeply for the season’s first taste. Farmers, meanwhile, are watching the skies and hoping that the weather holds and the harvest lives up to its promise.
