Pakistan is enjoying a strong mango export season, with 95,000 tonnes exported to the third week of August, according to the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC).
The latest figures mean that the country is well on its way to top the initial government mango export target of 125,000 tonnes for the entirety of the season, with 60,000 tonnes exported up to the same period of last year.
Citing PHDEC sources, the Daily Times reported that 20,000 tonnes were exported during the first three weeks of August alone, with the increase attributed to growing demand in the Middle East in particular.
Exports are expected to continue through until 15 September as demand internationally remains high, the PHDEC sources said.
According to Pakistani exporters, the government's export value targetof US$80m by the 2011/12 season would be achievable if better cooperationand support from the Ministry of Commerce was forthcoming.
Sources told the publication that a comprehensive plan was being put together to double earnings from mango exports over the next five years, with a special focus on international quarantine law and quality standards.
