Navi Mumbai: The season’s first export consignment of Alphonso (Hapus) mangoes—1,200 kg—was shipped to the United States from Vashi APMC Market on Thursday by K.B. Export, marking a slow start to the season amid rising costs and global uncertainties. Farmers and exporters are facing mounting challenges this year due to escalating air cargo rates and tensions in Gulf regions, which have disrupted supply chains and increased export costs. Air freight charges have nearly doubled from Rs. 350 per kg...