Pakistan promotes mangoes in South Korea

First-ever mango promotion held in Seoul to attract bulk buyers.

ISLAMABAD: The first ever promotional event for Pakistani mangoes in South Korea dubbed ‘Taste of Pakistani Mango’ was held in Seoul on Friday at a local hotel. The event was organised by the Commercial Section of the Embassy of Pakistan, in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Pakistan Horti­culture Development and Export Company and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, according to a press release.

The event was attended by a large number of local businessmen and government officials.

Pakistani mangoes entered the Korean market for the first time in 2012 after years of sustained efforts by the government.

The Korean mango market is worth about $13 million, and is dominated by Thai, Taiwanese and Philippines’ mangoes which hold 90% of the market.

However, officials are confident that Pakistani mangoes can capture a substantial share in the Korean market due to their much superior quality and taste.

Chairman of the Korean Importers Association (KOIMA) Shinn Tae Young was the chief guest of the event.

In his remarks, Young expressed his delight at the availability of Pakistani mangoes for local consumers. Pakistan’s ambassador to South Korea Shaukat Ali Mukadam, in his welcome address, spoke of the growing economic relations between the two countries and the potential of further growth in bilateral trade. Trade between Pakistan and South Korea has witnessed a steady growth in the last few years, with the volume reaching $1.6 billion in 2012, with Pakistani exports amounting to $776 million.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 13^th, 2013.

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