The mango industries in India and Pakistan are set to handle less fruit this season, according to local news sources. Weather conditions have been far from ideal and mango prices in the region could climb.
In India, a long dry spell has reduced the size of mangoes, however, the quality of the fruit has held up and the crop is expected to have excellent taste.
The combination of reduced supply and high quality could see a rise in prices across most varieties. Additionally, the quality may lead to more interest from international markets and a peak in overall exports.
In Pakistan, the blame for the possibility of a poor season has been placed on climate change and the weather fluctuations it has brought.
Waheed Ahmed, patron-in-chief of the All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association (PFVA), told The Express Tribune growers have struggled to adapt to the changing conditions.
“Global warming is the major reason behind this fall in production,” Ahmed said. “Heavy rains and hailstorms caused the decrease in output.”
“We need to spread awareness among our growers to protect their crops from rains and storms.”
Growers also face cost rises because of water stress and a drop in the value of the rupee against the US dollar, which puts even more strain on their ability to meet export targets.
