Minister stresses 'value addition, branding' to enhance mango exports

ISLAMABAD: National Food Security & Research (MFS&R) Minister Syed Fakhar Imam on Monday informed the National Assembly's Special Committee on Agriculture Products that value addition and branding were vital to enhance local exports of mangoes and to get a better rate of return in international markets.

The committee, which met with NA Speaker Asad Qaiser in the chair, was also informed that exports of mango may reduce this due to increase in air cargo charges by Pakistan International Airlines.

The meeting reviewed modalities for the provision of agriculture inputs, including seeds and fertilizers, to farmers on controlled rates. It also discussed ways and means to provide relief to growers on electricity.

The committee took note of the difficulties faced by mango exporters at the Iranian border.