Pakistan has scaled back its mango export target for the current season from 110,000 tonnes to 80,000 tonnes, driven by escalating logistical challenges linked to instability in the Middle East. The initial shipment of Pakistani mangoes is set to depart for international markets on Monday, yet exporters caution that soaring freight expenses, shipping delays, and reduced production could severely impact the country’s export revenues.
Waheed Ahmed, Chairman of the All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association, highlighted that access to Gulf markets has become increasingly constrained due to regional unrest. Sea freight costs have surged dramatically, rising from approximately $1,200 per container to as much as $7,000, while air freight rates have nearly doubled from 90 cents to almost $2 per kilogram.
The Gulf region represents about 35 percent of Pakistan’s mango exports, raising concerns that elevated transportation costs and supply chain disruptions may dampen demand in one of the nation’s key markets. Consequently, export earnings from mangoes are now projected to fall between $75 million and $80 million, below earlier estimates.
In addition to logistical hurdles, exporters face production challenges. Ahmed warned that climate change and plant diseases could further reduce mango yields this year. Industry estimates indicate that production may remain roughly 20 percent below average levels this season, limiting the volume available for export despite strong international demand.
Moreover, the ongoing closure of the Afghanistan border threatens to obstruct exports to Central Asian countries, which are emerging as important markets for Pakistani fruit. However, Ahmed expressed optimism about growing demand in neighboring Iran, anticipating increased sales of Pakistani mangoes there this season.
In a significant development, despite calls for earlier shipments, the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of National Food Security have upheld the official export start date of June 1. They emphasize that only fully ripened and quality-certified mangoes should be exported to maintain standards.
Ahmed noted that enhancing fruit quality could still bolster exports and strengthen Pakistan’s standing in global markets. He stressed that government support is crucial to meet the revised export target. Exporters have urged immediate action to alleviate freight bottlenecks, expedite port clearances, and intensify diplomatic efforts with countries affected by the regional crisis.
“Shipping services have been disrupted due to the regional situation, and vessels are experiencing delays,” Ahmed stated, warning that even the lowered export target might be challenging to reach if logistical issues persist. He added that a significant drop in mango exports could not only reduce Pakistan’s foreign exchange earnings but also diminish its share in the international mango market.
