Pakistan is gearing up to export 125,000 tonnes of mangoes in the upcoming 2025 season, with shipments scheduled to commence on May 25, according to the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association (PFVA). If successful, this initiative could generate $100 million in foreign exchange, a substantial increase from last year’s exports of 100,000 tonnes.
Climate Change Threatens Mango Output
While the export target is ambitious, climate change and water scarcity threaten to undermine this goal. PFVA Patron-in-Chief Waheed Ahmed revealed that mango production may decline by up to 20% this year. He stated:
“There is a risk of up to 20% reduction in total mango production this year as well.”
Historically, Pakistan produces around 1.8 million tonnes of mangoes annually, with Punjab contributing 70%, Sindh 29%, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa just 1%. However, this season’s output could fall to 1.4 million tonnes, driven by environmental stressors.
Expanding into New Global Markets
Despite domestic challenges, the PFVA is working to expand mango exports beyond traditional markets. While continuing to serve established buyers, the focus is now shifting to non-traditional markets including:
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Japan
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United States
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South Korea
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Australia
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China
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Turkey
Excitingly, South Africa is also expected to open its market to Pakistani mangoes this season, with quarantine officials scheduled to inspect facilities in Pakistan soon.
Call for Reforms and Innovation in Agriculture
Ahmed stressed the urgent need for provincial-level reforms, calling for:
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Improved water management systems
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Development of climate-resilient mango varieties
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Investment in research and development (R&D)
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Modernisation of agriculture and horticulture infrastructure
“Climate change is a serious challenge facing agriculture… there’s a pressing need for better policies, technology, and investment,” Ahmed emphasized.
He also pointed out that rising export costs and regional tensions are making it more difficult for exporters to stay competitive in the global market.
Conclusion
As Pakistan aims to secure a larger share of the international mango market, success hinges not just on hitting export targets, but on addressing the broader challenges of climate change, infrastructure modernization, and market diversification. With timely government support and innovation, the 2025 mango season could mark a turning point for the country’s fruit export landscape.
