Mango Importers Overwhelmingly Support Continuing National Mango Board in Latest USDA Referendum Vote

Industry support ensures continued funding for mango marketing and research, helping sustain long-term demand growth.

assorted tropical fruits on a wooden table_Photo by M.studio via AdobeStock_131204332.jpg

Assorted tropical fruits are typically in their peak season during the winter months in the Snited States.

Photo by M.studio via Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — American mango importers and first handlers have overwhelmingly approved continuing the National Mango Board, giving the industry’s research and promotion program a strong mandate for the next five years.

The latest referendum from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) shows more than 94 percent of eligible voters supported keeping the program in place, reflecting broad agreement that coordinated marketing and research efforts remain valuable for expanding mango demand in the United States. The vote applied to first handlers and importers managing at least 500,000 pounds of fresh mangos in 2024.

USDA is required to hold a continuance referendum every five years or sooner if requested by at least 10 percent of eligible participants. Because a majority voted in favor, the program will continue without interruption.

The National Mango Board uses industry-funded assessments to support market development, consumer education, quality research, and other initiatives aimed at strengthening the crop’s position in a highly competitive fruit category. The board is one of 22 research and promotion programs overseen by USDA, all designed to help agricultural sectors pool resources and build stronger markets.

Looking ahead, continuation of the program means funding for ongoing research, marketing campaigns, and industry coordination will remain stable as mango imports continue to rise.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Industry support ensures continued funding for mango marketing and research, helping sustain long-term demand growth.
Tony Saint James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Related Stories
A fast-moving series of trade signals from the White House and key partners is resetting the near-term outlook for U.S. agriculture.
Better yield measurement means fairer grids, more precise breeding targets, and more dollars for truly efficient cattle.
The Washington Tree Fruit Association says this is not surprising and notes the USDA has offered a lifeline to growers while they transition away from the cannery market.
Congress has just over a month of working days left for the year. Plan for uneven USDA service until funding is restored, and closely monitor Farm Bill talks, as avoiding Permanent Law before January 1 is the single biggest risk to markets and milk prices.
With China’s pullback, U.S. sorghum producers must broaden their export markets. Building connections now could help stabilize prices and demand for the upcoming larger crop.
USDA and EPA officials aim to maintain America’s robust food supply while ensuring farmers have access to key resources and crop protection tools.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

As farmers and ranchers navigate rising input costs, lawmakers are considering a roughly $15 billion aid package to help, which would be tied to the spending bill for the war with Iran.
Lower costs improve competitiveness, but demand remains uncertain.
Policy clarity will determine the trajectory of soybean crush demand, but producers in Kansas have shown that expanding local crush capacity strengthens basis and marketing options.
Corn and soybean shipments continue to move at a steady pace as spring trade flows develop.
Growing milk supply may pressure prices ahead.
Bigger flocks are rebuilding egg and poultry supply.