Challenges in Sindh's mango sector due to climate variation and water scarcity do not deter optimism among farmers and exporters aiming for a $100 million export target. Ali Palh, Chairman Sindh Agricultural Research Council, tells WealthPK that production decreased as temperatures in April and May reached 48 degrees Celsius. Reduced water flow in the Indus Valley further impacted fruit growth during peak flowering. Early-season growers benefited economically, yet later producers faced crop size and taste impairments.
Palh notes that this year, exporters directly purchased crops from growers, changing the traditional lower-pay model of intermediary involvement. He suggests higher incomes through direct export, although Sindh's growers face challenges due to training deficits and reliance on Southern Punjab's workforce. During the COVID-19 lockdown, local training attempts faltered due to insufficient governmental support.
The ambition remains to export 125,000 metric tons of mango, targeting $100 million in revenue. Pakistan's diverse climate yields over 300 mango varieties, with Sindh focusing on Sindhri, Chaunsa, Anwar Ratol, and Langra. While Sindh's mangoes, ripening in May, meet high demand, Southern Punjab's sweeter Chaunsa enters the market after mid-June.
The Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association (PFVA) indicates a national production decline, potentially by 20%, attributed to climate change and water scarcity. Waheed Ahmed, PFVA Patron-in-Chief, remarks on the concentrated production zones, 70% in Punjab and 29% in Sindh.
The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) promises enhanced support, with plans for increased exporter participation in international trade platforms. Pakistan ranks as the fourth-largest global mango producer, with 1.8 million tons annually, exporting over 125,000 tons in 2023 for around $100 million. A mango festival in Abu Dhabi in June spotlighted Pakistani mangoes, indicating growing Gulf region demand, with major buyers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Turkey. U.S. exports are less attractive due to logistical challenges.
Dr. Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar of Sindh Agriculture University highlights demand for varieties like Sindhri and Chaunsa overseas, yet points out the need for better post-harvest management and research facilities. Inadequate cold storage, largely controlled by contractors, affects fruit quality. As Southern Punjab's varieties reach markets, strategic export efforts continue amidst expected production drops, emphasizing the need for innovative supply chains and governmental support initiatives.
Source: INP
