Pakistan’s mango output expected to fall by 20% due to climate-related damages

Pakistan’s mango season has entered markets later than usual this year, with industry estimates showing a nearly 20% decline in production amid weather-related damage and growing concerns over export disruptions, according to a news report. 

Industry stakeholders said unusual weather conditions during the flowering stage affected crop development, reducing expected national output to around 1.5 million tonnes compared to nearly 1.8 million tonnes last year.

The area under mango cultivation has remained largely unchanged at about 160,000 hectares.

According to exporters, cooler and wetter conditions during March and April delayed harvesting across the country. While mango arrivals in local markets usually begin in late April, harvesting started only in the first week of May this year.

Exports are now expected to begin on June 1 instead of around May 20.

Early-producing districts in Sindh, including Mirpurkhas, Tando Allahyar and Hyderabad, are reporting average yields. However, major mango-producing areas in Punjab, including Rahim Yar Khan, Multan, Muzaffargarh and Shujaabad, are witnessing lower production levels.

Exporters said the season could extend longer than usual and continue until mid-September, depending on weather conditions during the summer months.

Despite lower production, exporters do not expect a major increase in international prices due to weaker demand in Pakistan’s traditional regional export markets.

Exporters also expressed concern over air cargo operations, noting that Pakistan relies heavily on Middle Eastern airlines for mango exports to Europe and the United Kingdom.

According to exporters, reduced flight frequencies and limited cargo capacity are complicating export planning for the season.