Pakistan eyes $125m from mango exports despite climate, trade hurdles

KARACHI: Pakistan is targeting the export of 125,000 tonnes of mangoes in the current season, with an anticipated revenue of $125 million, the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association (PFVA) announced. The export campaign is set to kick off on Sunday (May 25).

This year’s target marks a significant increase of 25,000 tonnes over last year’s exports. However, stakeholders warn that climate-related challenges and logistical hurdles could threaten the country's ambitious plans.

Waheed Ahmed, patron-in-chief of PFVA, said that Pakistan is facing a consistent decline in mango production due to climate change and water scarcity. “There is a risk of up to 20 per cent reduction in total mango production this year as well,” he said.

According to PFVA estimates, Pakistan typically produces around 1.8 million tonnes of mangoes annually. Punjab leads with 70 per cent of the total output, followed by Sindh at 29 per cent, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at 1.0 per cent. This year, following a projected 20 per cent drop, total production may fall to around 1.4 million tonnes.

Despite these concerns, the industry is expanding its global footprint. “In addition to our regular buyers, we are targeting new markets such as Japan, the US, South Korea and Australia. Special focus is also being placed on increasing exports to Turkey and China,” Ahmed noted.

A key development this season is the potential opening of the South African market. “Quarantine experts from South Africa will visit Pakistan during the season, and we hope this will pave the way for mango exports to begin there,” he revealed.

Ahmed emphasised that climate change is not just a seasonal concern but a long-term threat to Pakistan’s agriculture. “Rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns and depleting water resources are putting mango production at serious risk. There is a need for urgent, province-level action, including better water management, investment in climate-resilient mango varieties, and modernisation across the agricultural sector.”

Exporters are also grappling with elevated shipping costs due to regional tensions. “Ongoing tensions with India have led shipping companies to impose additional charges on Pakistani cargo. These surcharges are undermining the competitiveness of our exports,” he said. The PFVA has urged the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to intervene and facilitate the removal of these extra costs.

Looking ahead, Ahmed said the success of the mango export campaign will largely depend on favourable weather conditions in the coming months. “Strong winds, heavy rainfall, or extreme heat could negatively affect the harvest and overall supply,” he warned.

Despite the challenges, the PFVA remains hopeful that with strategic planning, market expansion and government support, the country can meet its mango export goals and boost foreign exchange earnings during the 2025 season.