Indian mango exporter Kay Bee Exports has invested in a proprietary Vapour Heat Treatment (VHT) facility in July 2026, according to company statements. The strategic infrastructure upgrade aims to secure compliance with strict phytosanitary regulations required by high-value international destinations, including China, New Zealand, and Japan.
Expanding Global Access Through Vapour Heat Treatment
Phytosanitary compliance dictates market access for fresh agricultural commodities. According to Kay Bee Exports CEO Kaushal Khakhar, international trade protocols for Indian mangoes typically rely on three primary quarantine treatments: Hot Water Treatment (HWT), Vapour Heat Treatment (VHT), and gamma irradiation. While nations like Japan and New Zealand mandate VHT, other markets accept both HWT and VHT, establishing Vapour Heat Treatment as a more versatile commercial solution for exporters managing fruit fly and pest control.
The new VHT unit unlocks access to stringent markets that reject alternative processing methods. This investment directly supports the company’s broader growth strategy following a strong Indian mango season that concluded recently, during which Kay Bee Exports reported a 40% growth.
India’s Mango Production and Infrastructure Development
India generates approximately 40% of the world’s total mango production, providing a robust supply foundation for export enterprises, according to industry data cited by Kaushal Khakhar. Agricultural universities across India continue to develop and introduce high-yielding hybrid varieties designed to improve commercial viability and fruit performance for domestic growers.
Different quarantine methods target specific agricultural pests. While VHT and HWT effectively neutralize fruit flies, gamma irradiation remains the only approved protocol capable of addressing both fruit flies and the mango seed weevil. By integrating dedicated VHT infrastructure, Kay Bee Exports positions itself to handle complex phytosanitary demands across multiple international regions.
Upcoming Industry Engagement
Kay Bee Exports plans to showcase its expanded export capabilities at the upcoming Asia Fruit Logistica trade exhibition. Company representatives will host industry partners and international buyers at Hall 3, stand C21, to discuss upcoming harvest schedules and protocol-compliant shipments.
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