Due to the repercussions of climate change, Pakistan's mango production is anticipated to decrease for the third consecutive year, impacting the country's export goals for 2024. The All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers, Merchants Association has announced an export target of 100,000 tons for the current season, aiming for about $90 million in export revenue. However, challenges including increased input costs and climate variability might hinder achieving this target. Mangoes, being Pakistan's most exported fruit, are primarily shipped to countries such as China, the USA, Turkey, Japan, Iran, Afghanistan, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Central Asian nations.
Significant production declines have been reported in Punjab and Sindh provinces, attributed to various factors, including climate change. Punjab, the leading mango-producing region in Pakistan, has seen a reduction of 30-35% in its mango output, while Sindh has experienced a 20% decrease. The local market consumes the majority of the mango production, which totals approximately 1.8 million tons annually. The changing climate has not only affected the production volumes, but also the timing of the export process, which typically begins around May 20.
Experts and industry leaders express concern over the lack of government action to mitigate the challenges faced by the mango industry. Increased costs for electricity, gas, transportation, garden maintenance, pesticides, and water management have compounded the difficulties for exporters. The mango industry, valued at over 100 billion, plays a significant role in employment within the country. Furthermore, Pakistan, being one of the countries most affected by climate change, has encountered extreme weather events, including heatwaves and unusual rainfall patterns, which have further complicated the situation for mango cultivation.
Source: deccanherald.com