According to Bernarno Malo, president of the Mango Ecuador Foundation, prospects for the 2012-2013 mango campaign in Ecuador are similar to the previous one in terms of export volumes. Moreover, the weather has had an impact on production, delaying the harvest period.
The main issue caused by the weather was, due to unfavourable temperatures, the flowering process was delayed. "Additionally, there is a very low likelihood of the arrival of the phenomenon known as 'El Niño', despite it being announced by various sources," Bernardo assures.
Malo explains that he sees fresh mango consumption rising globally. "It is clear that, for example, supermarket chains are increasingly giving more importance to this fruit in their promotions. We can see a difference not only in the number of consumers, but also in the amounts of fruit purchased by those who were already consumers. In this sense, it is worth mentioning what a relevant role the National Mango Board has played in the US market as regards marketing strategies."
Bernardo also highlights the professionalism in the sector and the significant investments made in the areas of harvesting and packing, "which have made a noteworthy contribution to the promotion of the fruit's consumption whenever the fruit's quality has been on a par," Bernardo says.
Due to the rise in mango consumption and the great recognition the fruit has acquired over the years, Malo affirms that "mangoes can no longer be considered exotic fruits, but have now become tropical, just like pineapples or papayas."
Given the relevance of mangoes worldwide, Bernardo Malo's Mango Ecuador Foundation is organising the 4th International Ecuadorian Mango Congress, which will take place between 30 and 31 August. As in previous years, the event will feature speakers from Peru, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, United States, Uruguay, Mexico, Israel and Chile.
During the 4th International Ecuadorian Mango Congress various technical issues will be addressed. Nowadays the weather plays a determining role in the production of tropical fruits, especially mangoes, which is why a lecture will be presented called "The weather and its effects on crops: Prediction model for flowering and production" which will be given by the Mexican expert Dr José Luis González.
Bernardo says that another really current issue which will be discussed at the congress is the widespread use of a chemical called Paclobutrazol (PBZ). Due to a number of concerns raised about its long-term effects, a discussion will take place with the presence of the renowned Brazilian consultant Eduardo Ferraz entitled "Current threats and risks in the sustained used of Paclobutrazol and alternatives for an adequate use."
Besides the topics already mentioned, the two days of the event will be used to discuss various issues of great interest for the international mango industry. The Mango Ecuador Foundation invites all those who may be interested in the event to register.
For more information: