Mango is one of the most popular summer fruits. From the fruit itself to the dishes made with it, this bright-yellow delight of India is known for its aroma, juicy taste, and a sense of belonging. According to Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) data, a single mango can provide up to 40 percent of the daily dietary fiber needs - a potent protector against heart disease, cancer and cholesterol build-up. In addition, this luscious fruit is a warehouse of potassium, beta-carotene and antioxidants. In India, mangoes are mainly grown in tropical and subtropical regions from sea level to an altitude of 1,500 m. According to APEDA, India is home to about 1,000 varieties. As per the latest report, India resumed mango exports to Japan in 2006, ending a ban that had lasted two decades. And once again, history is repeating itself as the trade corridor is on hold again. Scroll down to find out the reason behind the ban. What does the official notice state The Yokohama Plant Protection Association, a public-interest body that supports Japan's plant quarantine operations, issued a formal notice dated March 31, 2026. The notice stated that mango shipments carrying inspection certificates issued by India on or after March 25, 2026 would not be accepted. mports from Indian facilities would remain suspended until Japanese authorities were satisfied that operational standards had improved, the notice said.What was the reason behind the ban According to reports, every year Japan sends quarantine officers to inspect the Vapour Heat Treatment facilities that Indian exporters are required to use before shipping to Japan. VHT is a non-chemical quarantine process in which mangoes are subjected to controlled hot, humid air conditions to eliminate fruit flies and other pests. It is a mandatory prerequisite under the bilateral protocol that governs Indian mango exports to Japan. This year, when the inspection took place in Rehmanpur, Uttar Pradesh, the inspectors identified deficiencies in fumigation protocols and related disinfection measures at the facility. The specific technical details of what was found deficient have not been made public by either the Japanese or Indian authorities.India and Japan Mango TradeAccording to reports, Japan's share of Indian mangoes is limited. The exports of fresh and processed mango products to Japan were valued at $1.54 million in 2025-26, with Gujarat's Kesar variety accounting for the largest portion of shipments to that market.When will the ban be removedAccording to reports, the suspension notice sets no timeline for resumption. It states only that imports will remain suspended until Japanese authorities are satisfied that operational standards at Indian facilities have improved.