According to Eric, the mango industry is quite successful and Mexico is one of the leading producers and exporters. “There is a good situation throughout the world, however, we have to be objective and reflect on what has gone well, but also be aware of the aspects on which we can improve to make the sector even more valuable.” Mango in general is growing, but Eric explains that it’s growing among the people that are familiar with eating mango. “The growth of mango is more demographic, because people that consume mango are moving around the world and still expect to eat the same fruits and vegetables. While other commodities, other industries have grown in all possible ways.”
“The mango industry creates value in the developing countries. Often, mango production can be found in poverty areas. Mango has been a great solution to create business opportunities and generate income for families in these areas. This isn’t just the case in Mexico, but as well India, Africa, Brazil, Peru and other producing countries”, continues Eric. He refers to other mango producing countries as allies, instead of competitors. “We are all allies if we’re working to increase worldwide mango consumption. Therefore, we expect people to join our conference from many countries. The real competition is to get shelf life in the supermarket and stomach space for consumers.”
“We are changing the format of how a congress should be. Speakers are still invited because of their knowledge and experience, however, they are mostly part of a discussion panel. The idea is to bring people together, that are able to come up with conclusions and ideas that can help the mango sector”, says Eric. The programme includes speakers from Australia, the Netherlands, United States, Ecuador and more. “We have invited people from diverse industries such as berries, avocado and protected agriculture. These success stories can be implemented in the mango industry.”
The intention is to have a global event, as they want to come up with a global strategy in the mango industry. Moreover, a young leader programme is organised, which involves the children of the mango leaders. “We motivate families to join the event, as we want to avoid ageing in the sector. We need young people and their new ideas and strategies.” In addition, a parallel session is arranged on the first day, of key investigators of institutions in the Mexican mango industry, that will share their knowledge.”
This global congress is organized by EMEX, which is the organisation that represents the packers and exporters of mango. “We are proud to be growers, but now we also have to become business men. The congress involves the whole supply chain, in order to make the necessary business decisions. Most important of the congress is to come up with a work plan, that can be used worldwide. We are trying to innovate in how these work plans are developed. This is an asset for the mango industry, but as well for other products”, concludes Eric.
For more information: Eric Viramontes
EMEX, A.C.
Mexico
T:+52 33 32 80 24 40
E: congreso@mangoemex.com
www.mangoemex.com/congreso