One month into the Egyptian mango season, "demand is disappointing, and prices are low," according to Mahdi Salem, technical director of Sherouk Land for Agricultural Development.
The grower says, "This is the worst export campaign I've seen in years. Demand only took off a week ago. Before that, it just wasn't good enough."
Yet, "quality is excellent this season", says Salem. "Some varieties, like Naomi, have given excellent sizes. Others, like Keit and Kent, are a bit smaller this year. Overall, quality and yields are excellent."
"Russia and the Arab countries continue to dominate the export market, along with a few Europen countries." While demand from Saudi Arabia for mangoes is high this summer, Salem explains that exporters are reluctant to export there: "The Saudi market is importing on commission and not a fixed price. This worrying for Egyptian exporters, as the financial return is often not good."
"Due to the flat demand, prices are down 40% on the previous season! With rising costs, if prices stay like this, mangoes will not remain profitable in the coming years," worries Salem.
This year, growers are saved by the considerable increase in yield, according to Salem. "Yields are up almost 30% on last season, which means the season is slightly profitable at such prices."
For more information:
Mahdi Salem
Sherouk Land for Agricultural Development
Tel: +20 102 462 6544
Email: [email protected]