Mexico has the agricultural infrastructure and technical management to sustain mango production all year round. However, continuous export conditions still face restrictions. Climate variability, phenological alterations, and the concentration of production from April to August limit the ability to maintain a stable supply, despite the geographical staggering of national production. These conditions delayed mango production and (most importantly) exports in the first quarter of 2025.
© Universidad Autónoma Chapingo
"The Ataúlfo mango is currently the main variety, and it's mainly grown in southern Mexican entities such as Chiapas and Oaxaca. However, other varieties such as Tommy Atkins, Kent, Keith, and Hayden are also important. National production advances in a staggered manner from the south to the north, ending in states such as Sinaloa - the main producer - and Baja California Sur," stated Sergio R. Márquez-Berber, professor at the Chapingo Autonomous University and the main organizer of the XIV International Mango Symposium.
© Universidad Autónoma Chapingo
"Mango exports generate more than 580 million dollars annually for Mexico. More than 80% of the export volume is destined for the United States, thanks to the logistical proximity and strong market demand," he stated. "However, we are working to gain ground in Europe, where reddish-skinned varieties dominate. We are trying to get European consumers to enjoy yellow mangoes such as Ataúlfo," he stated, highlighting recent promotional events on that continent.
© Universidad Autónoma Chapingo
The weather has had a notable impact on the phenology of the crop. This year, large temperature variations affected flowering and fruit development. "There have been production lags; Ataúlfo exports started almost a week later than usual, and the quantity exported during the first quarter was lower than in 2024," he said. "Cold fronts in the Southeast and Nayarit caused significant delays. Normally, we don't have any cold fronts in April. Now we had 41 cold fronts until the start of May."
"These conditions affect the production volume and fruit quality. The cold helps, but also affects production. It helps differentiate flowering, but slows down mango development," Sergio explained.
© Universidad Autónoma Chapingo
The sector is working to strengthen its positioning. The XIV International Mango Symposium, an event of relevance for the global industry, will be held in Mazatlan, Sinaloa, from May 28 to 31, 2025. It will bring together experts and representatives from the five continents, who will exchange experiences, knowledge, and innovation proposals to face the mango's climatic, commercial, and productive challenges. The Symposium will be a platform to boost research, improve agricultural practices, and strengthen international cooperation.
© Universidad Autónoma Chapingo
"It is worth noting that, despite delays and weather effects, export prices in weeks 16 and 17 were encouraging: Ataúlfo mango prices ranged from $5.00 to $6.38 per 9-pound box, while Tommy Atkins prices ranged from $6.08 to $7.28 per 9-pound box. These numbers reflect the value and sustained demand for these varieties in international markets," Sergio concluded.
For more information:
Sergio Roberto Márquez-Berber
Universidad Autónoma Chapingo
Tel: +52 59510 70500
Email: [email protected]
https://chapingo.mx/
