Measures stressed to multiply mango production

BEIJING (APP) - Pakistan, the world’s sixth-largest mango exporter, boasts over 200 varieties yet struggles to translate its abundance into export growth.

With around 1.2 million tons of mangoes produced annually over the past several years, the country still exports only about 10% of its produce. High production costs and persistent quality concerns continue to constrain growth.

Khawar Nadeem, manager of the Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Board, highlights that up to 30% of mangoes are lost from the orchard to the consumer due to outdated farming practices. Unlike conventional Pakistani farms with 40–60 plants per acre, countries like Australia and Egypt cultivate up to 600 plants per acre using high-density planting, superior rootstocks, and greenhouse setups.

“If orchards with modern technology can be established, yields could multiply,” Nadeem says.

“For that, we need greater adoption of genetic engineering and the establishment of comprehensive production facilities, such as greenhouses, to offset the declining quality of nurseries caused by contamination from germs, diseases, and pests.

At the same time, it is essential to introduce dwarf rootstock varieties that offer better adaptability to Pakistan’s soil conditions,” he added.

Dr Muhammad Zubair Iqbal, Vice Chancellor of Bahauddin Zakariya University, points to another barrier: costs. “Electricity, gas, land, and registration fees are all too high. If we really want this industry to grow, input costs must come down, and registration processes should be eased.”

In May, the All Pakistan Fruit & Vegetable Exporters, Importers & Merchants Association (PFVA) launched its 2025 mango export season, setting a target of 125,000 tons worth an estimated $100 million.

China, the world’s largest fruit consumer has emerged as one of Pakistan’s fastest-growing markets.