There are still a few months to go before the arrival in the market of Spanish mangoes, a product that enjoys a good reputation in the European markets thanks to its flavor, as it is harvested later due to its proximity to market. However, some tropical fruit producers and traders from Malaga have found a mango in the Dominican Republic that they claim has identical organoleptic qualities, and they are already importing it by ship.
Ivan Coín and his wife Andrea Navas, owners of Exótico Coín.
"A few months ago, we were on a trip to the Dominican Republic, where we were able to visit some mango and avocado farms. After doing some tests, we realized that by carrying out a proper selection of the fruit, we could bring mangoes to Europe with a surprisingly sweet, exquisite flavor," said Iván Coín, of Exótico Coín. "It is undoubtedly the mango of the Keitt variety that most resembles the Spanish mango. It's amazing! The fruit's lovers should try it."
"The search for these mangoes has been driven by the desire to find tasty mangoes in the off-season, without having to resort to importing by plane, because personally, I do not like the quality and taste of the Kent mangoes that usually arrive by ship from Peru," says Iván Coín. "I think we have found mangoes in the Dominican Republic that are currently superior in terms of flavor to the ones available now in Senegal or Ivory Coast that are shipped by sea," says the producer.
Exótico Coín, which has its own brand Exotic Select, received the first container last week and is already marketing it in European wholesale markets.
"At the moment, we are receiving one container per week. We are very happy with the project, and especially with the product we are selecting in the Dominican Republic. Over there, we are paying our partner growers 40% more than usual to select fruit with some specific color specifications, which indicate that the fruit has reached the ideal moment to be harvested. Buyers are often asking us if these mangoes have been shipped by air," says Iván.
According to Iván Coín, the demand for mangoes isn't high at the moment, although having a product like the Dominican mango can make a difference, as it stands out from the rest. "Almost all markets already have stone fruit, which takes quota away from products like mangoes. However, the characteristics of this product help boost sales. We are diversifying our sales to ensure as many buyers as possible can try it. And the fact is that those who try it, come back for more," he says.
The Malaga-based company has Osteen and Keitt mango farms in the Axarquia region, and it also grows avocados. About 30% of its production is certified organic.
"We will sell the Dominican mango until August, when we will start with the Malaga harvest, which will arrive early this year due to the recent rains and mild temperatures. After last year's strong production, this year yields are expected to drop by 50-60% and the sizes should be larger," says Iván Coín.
For more information:
Iván Coín
Exótico Coín S.L.,
T: +34 622184824
nfo@exoticselect.com