The king of fruits mango (Mangifera indica L.) member of family Anacardiaceae, is one of the most important tropical fruits of the world. Mangoes all over the world, are native to South and Southeast Asia and are now enjoyed every part of the world. The global production volume of mangoes, mangosteens, and guavas was a little over 59 million metric tonnes in 2022, a rise from approximately 57 million metric tonnes in 2021.
Pakistan’s mango crop statistics is facing significant challenges because of the impact of seasonal changes in 2024, leading to concerns of a 20 per cent decline in production. Adepts stated that the effects of these changes have resulted in a limited yield of up to 1.4 million metric tonnes, down from the expected output.
Over a hundred varieties of mangoes, Pakistan cultivates only a select few which are produced at a commercial scale. Often considered a quintessential summer delight, mangoes are not only savored locally but also exported globally.
| Pakistan: Production Of Mango (000 Tonnes) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiscal Year | Mango | Fiscal Year | Mango |
| 2010-11 | 1,889 | 2017-18 | 1,734 |
| 2011-12 | 1,700 | 2018-19 | 1,723 |
| 2012-13 | 1,680 | 2019-20 | 1,639 |
| 2013-14 | 1,659 | 2020-21 | 1,714 |
| 2014-15 | 1,717 | 2021-22 | 1,845 |
| 2015-16 | 1,636 | 2022-23 P | 1786 |
| 2016-17 | 1,784 | ||
Our country’s conducive weather and soil situations, mainly in southern Punjab, contribute to the worldwide popularity of Pakistani mangoes. This versatile fruit in various forms, can be enjoyed, from raw consumption to being incorporated into desserts, smoothies, and pickles.
The adverse effects of seasonal variations have not only caused a decline in production but have also diminished the orchards’ capability to combat diseases, as per the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters (PFVA).
Statistics showed that the target for mango exports this season has been set at 125,000 metric tonnes. The projected revenue from mango exports is estimated to stand a substantial $100 million, offering an important boost to Pakistan’s economy. Major buyers of Pakistani mangoes include Iran, Central Asian countries, Gulf countries, and the UK, with Europe, Canada, the USA, and Japan also being significant markets. The rise in export costs resulting from reduced production, quality problems connected to climatic effects, and growing freight, packaging, and transport expenses pose significant issues for mango exports. Additionally, ongoing law and order problems, political unrest, and disruptions in delivery could more impact exports. Statistics showed that Punjab accounts for 70 per cent of Pakistan’s mango production, while Sindh contributes 29 per cent, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) holds a 1 per cent share.
Across the country the impact of these changes has been felt by mango growers. Experts said that Anthracnose and powdery mildew diseases combined with other ailments, have ravaged mango orchards in interior Sindh, causing severe damage to thousands of acres of cultivated land and ultimately resulting in a potential 30 percent fall in mango production.
Furthermore, mango orchards in other districts, counting Badin, Tando Allahyar, Mirpur Khas, Badin and Sanghar are also at risk of these destructive diseases, exacerbating concerns about the overall impact on Pakistan’s mango production.
Moreover, Anthracnose and powdery mildew spread when borers infest mango trees, causing irreparable damage to the fruit. These infections manifest as shriveled, unhealthy-looking mangoes, leading to significant losses for farmers.
No doubt, attempts to combat these diseases have been made, with many medicines available in the market, but their effectiveness has been limited. Smaller orchards additionally, have been disproportionately affected, as their owners often lack the necessary information and resources to effectively tackle these diseases and implement preventive initiatives.
Pakistan in 2023 faced same problems, with changing weather patterns harshly impacting fruit crops across the country. The early arrival of summer in March resulted in significant damage to the mango harvest, as only 60 percent of the expected yield reached the markets.
As Pakistan enters the summer season, anticipation for the mango grows. However, the present unpredictable weather patterns have disrupted the delicate balance required for successful mango cultivation, heavily relying on irrigation from rivers and canals.Presently the world’s most expensive mangoes, called Miyazaki, have made their debut in Karachi, Pakistan. These special mangoes, originally from Japan, are now growing well under Karachi’s hot sun.
Normally, during Pakistan’s mango season, mango varieties like Langra, Chaunsa, Sindhri, Dasheri, and Anwar Rathore are the stars. But with the arrival of Miyazaki mangoes, things are changing in the mango industry.
It is said that the most mangoes are yellow, Miyazaki mangoes are eye-catching with their bright red and purple colors. They also have a special taste. Facts showed that in other states, these special mangoes sell for $800 to $900 per kilogram, which is almost Rs 250,000 to Rs 300,000 in Pakistan.
Now, after a successful trial, more farmers all over Pakistan are growing Miyazaki mangoes. In Pakistan the farmer praised the fertile lands of Karachi’s Malir area and is hopeful about the future of Miyazaki mango farming because the region is good at producing lots of fruit.