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20
May
Climate change continues to severely impact Pakistan’s mango production, with experts predicting a substantial decline in yields for the third consecutive year. Exporters and horticulture specialists warn that the nation’s mango output could drop by 600,000 metric tonnes this season, raising concerns for farmers and international markets alike. Punjab and Sindh are the primary mango-producing regions, contributing 70% and 29% respectively to the national yield of 1.8 million metric tonnes, while Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) contributes just 1%. Unfavorable weather patterns threaten to reduce Punjab’s yield by an alarming 35-40%, whereas Sindh faces a relatively smaller reduction of less than 20%. Despite these challenges, the All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association (APFVEA) aims to export 100,000 metric tonnes this season, starting on May 20th. This goal depends on expanding markets beyond traditional boundaries, with a focus on value-added destinations such as China, America, Turkey, and Japan. Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asian states are also critical to achieving the export target.
Waheed Ahmed, Patron-in-Chief of APFVEA, highlights the severe impact of climate change on mango orchards, noting a significant drop in production. Last season’s export target of 125,000 metric tonnes fell short, reaching only 100,000 metric tonnes. This year’s reduced target underscores the seriousness of the situation. Meeting this goal could generate $90 million in foreign exchange. Ahmed stresses the importance of stabilizing markets in Central Asian countries and Iran via Afghanistan, while increasing exports to China and exploring new markets in Australia, Japan, and America. Collaboration with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) aims to promote Pakistani mangoes in Turkey and the Far East. Despite these challenges, the value-added sector, including mango processing, packaging, and warehousing, remains a significant economic contributor, surpassing Rs100 billion and providing employment to millions. However, rising costs and climate-induced disruptions present formidable obstacles to sustainability. Progressive farmers and growers from Sindh express dissatisfaction with governmental efforts in research and development. They emphasize the need for research-based solutions and the development of new varieties and seeds resilient to changing climatic conditions. Awareness programs are necessary to educate stakeholders on climate change and evolving agricultural practices.
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