Pakistan to export mangoes to the US

Mango exports to US to begin in 2011 season after first shipments of the fruit to Europe last season.

KARACHI: Pakistan is expected to launch mango exports to the United States in 2011 season after first shipments of the fruit were made to Europe last year.

People associated with the mango industry gathered at a conference on Tuesday to celebrate a successful 2010 mango season, which was labeled the best year in the history of the country’s mango exports.

With annual production exceeding 1.5 million tons and demand growing around the world, the mango industry has a big potential for growth, says a press release.

Over the past year, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) helped local producers ship mangoes by sea to major fruit and vegetable importers and supermarkets in Europe. USAID also supported introduction of an internationally recognised quality certification, trained mango farmers in modern techniques, helped upgrade infrastructure and assisted in creating links with international buyers.

Increased mango exports will directly benefit two million Pakistanis, increase revenues for businesses, generate employment and boost economy, especially in southern Punjab and northern Sindh.

“American people have been working hand in hand with Pakistani mango farmers, government officials and entrepreneurs to get the fruit into international markets,” said Andrew Sisson, Pakistan’s Mission Director for USAID.

“Mango growers have demonstrated tremendous dedication and investment in the previous year, with the support of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and US government,” said Federal Agriculture Minister Nazar Muhammad Gondal.

“Their successes will encourage other farmers to attain international standards and certifications and compete in the international market,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 5^th, 2011.