KARACHI: : Pakistan is set to start the export of mangoes on May 20, aiming to reach the 100,000-ton mark this year.
Due to stricter measures that are meant to ensure quality, a 10% increase in mango exports is expected with an estimated jump in revenue between 20 to 25%. Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchant Association (PFVA) Research and Development Chairman Waheed Ahmed said that the country is expecting to generate $60 million in revenues from the export of 100,000 tons as compared to $48 million from the 92,000 tons recorded last year.
Production of 1.8 million tons is being forecast this year despite huge losses due to climatic hazards in upper Punjab. The climatic changes in rain patterns, thunderstorms and a prolonged winter season have adversely affected crop production in Punjab and may cause a 30 to 35% decline in mango production in the province against its share of 64% in the country.
Mango production in Rahim Yar Khan, Muzaffargarh and Multan is expected to face reduction by 25%, 50% and 60%, respectively this year.
However, the crop in Sindh is comparatively safe where only a 10% reduction is expected in its share of 35% of the country’s total mango production.
