With the export of 28,000 tones Pakistani mangoes, exports recorded 16 percent growth during first month (May 20 to June 20) as compared to the same period last year. Last year 24,000 tones mangoes were exported in 30 days. Waheed Ahmed, Chairman Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchant Association (PFVA) said the start of mango season in holy month of Ramazan this year could be the major reason behind the jump in export. The export was started on May 20, 2016.

Pakistan exported mangoes to at least 47 countries including the European countries where over 2700 tones have so far been exported with an increase of 47 percent. Last year 1400 tones were exported to EU. At least 2000 tones were exported to United Kingdom only in 30 days as compared to 900 tones exported during the same period last year. Waheed said the efforts made on the part of exporters for improving quality of the fruit are also materialising as mangoes in international markets is being sold at price range of $550 to $600 per ton. However before ban imposed on wooden box the Pakistani mangoes were sold $250 to $300 per ton. Even last year due to ban implementation the selling price of Pakistani mangoes achieved $450 per ton.

According to Chairman PFVA, usually 70 percent mango is exported to Dubai from where the fruit is supplied to other markets in Gulf countries. So far in first month of the current season more than 14,600 tons mangoes have been exported to UAE, he added. For the first time, Pakistan's mango is being sold in Dubai at equal price of Indian mango. "Sometimes our mango receives even better price in Dubai. Traditionally the Pakistani mangoes are being sold less than AED 10 to 15 of 8 Kg box as compared to Indian mango of same 8 Kg box. Now selling price of Pakistani mangoes are levelled to Indian mangoes that is AED 34 to 36 of 8kg box," he mentioned.

Chairman PFVA said that though in Punjab 20 percent production of mango has reportedly damaged due to monsoon rains and other climatic hazards, the exporters, keeping in view the current pace of exports, are hopeful to meet the target of 0.1 million tones export in ongoing season.