Harsh weather eats into mango output
Pakistan is facing 50% to 60% drop in mango production this year due to the effects of climate change and high temperatures. Photo: file
The decline in mango production due to an unusual spike in temperatures coupled with water shortages is a new emerging problem in Pakistan, said Wang Zihai, President of Pakistan-China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI).
During an online meeting with the executive members of PCJCCI on Monday, Wang said that Pakistan needed to enhance cooperation with China to modernise farming structures and techniques to increase mango production, produce premium quality fruit and improve competitiveness in the global market to boost exports and earn foreign exchange.
He added that the drip irrigation system should be followed for the successful growth of mangoes as the system delivered small amounts of water where needed.
“As we all are aware that the nation is currently facing huge water shortages due to less snowfall and rains, so this method will definitely help in increasing the yield of mango crops.”
PCJCCI Senior Vice President Ehsan Choudhry said that until 2018 Pakistan produced 1.9 million tons of mangoes annually, ranking sixth in the world, preceded by India, China, Thailand, Indonesia and Mexico.
The country’s mango production has declined over the past four years due to global warming. Currently, Pakistan’s annual mango production stands between 1.7 million and 1.8 million tons.
He underscored the dire need for joint ventures with China for establishing quality enhancement centres, fruit processing units, dehydration plants, drip irrigation system and cold storage chains to help Pakistan to export the fruit in line with the international standards.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 31st, 2022.
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