As Pakistan strives to retain its status as one of the world’s top mango producers, there is a pressing need to enhance packaging and logistics to improve export competitiveness, according to WealthPK.
Mr. Nurullah, Senior Scientific Officer (SSO) at the National Agricultural Research Council, told WealthPK, “With global demand for high-quality mangoes increasing, Pakistan’s success in seizing this opportunity depends on addressing significant supply chain inefficiencies.”
Although Pakistan ranks as the 5th largest mango producer globally, it exports only 6-7% of its total output, falling short of its potential. The industry faces challenges due to outdated packaging and logistics practices, which result in considerable post-harvest losses and limit the reach of Pakistani mangoes in international markets.
“Inadequate packaging materials and methods often cause damage during transit, diminishing the fruit’s shelf life and marketability abroad,” he explained. “Packaging is not merely about containment; it’s about protection. The use of substandard packaging materials is a key factor in why our mangoes often fail to meet international quality standards.”
He recommended adopting advanced packaging solutions, such as moisture-resistant cartons and temperature-controlled storage, to significantly reduce spoilage during transport.
“The logistics infrastructure supporting mango exports also requires modernization. Outdated transportation methods, like old vessels with insufficient temperature control, especially for shipments to the Middle East, contribute to delays and expose mangoes to unfavorable conditions, impacting quality upon arrival,” he added.
M. Ashraf, a mango grower and exporter from Sindh, emphasized, “Without an efficient logistics network and reliable cold chain management, our mangoes are at a disadvantage compared to those from countries with well-developed infrastructure. To meet international market demands, Pakistan needs to invest in modernizing its logistics infrastructure, focusing on reducing transit times and maintaining quality control throughout the supply chain. This includes improving worker training and tools to ensure fruit quality from farm to market.”
Ashraf also highlighted the potential for public-private partnerships to support and develop the necessary infrastructure.
Despite a significant 30-40% decrease in mango production this year due to climate change and pest infestations, domestic demand remains met, and exports to key markets such as the Middle East, the UK, and the USA are sustained. Official trade statistics show that approximately 75% of Pakistan’s mango exports are directed to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, with 50% transported by sea, 35% by land, and 15% by air.
