Challenges remain in terms of accessing raw materials and adapting to the changing climate, but Côte d’Ivoire’s mango exporters see opportunities in Europe’s premium market
As demand for high-quality mangoes continues to rise across Europe, Côte d’Ivoire is positioning itself as a key player in the global mango market, according to Madigbe Diaby of ADF Agro, which specialises in premium mango exports.
Diaby highlighted the unique quality of Côte d’Ivoire’s mangoes, specifically the Kent variety, which ADF Agro grows on its own farm.
“In Europe, the main demand is for Kent,” he explained. “There are mangoes that are sent by sea, and then there are mangoes that are shipped by air. These are the luxury mangoes, ripened on the tree and bursting with flavour.”
ADF Agro is focused on airfreighted mangoes, which Diaby said are known for their superior taste and appearance. In addition to fresh mangoes, the company has also developed a dried mango range, including strips and sheets for healthy snacking.
The company currently exports to France and Italy, but Diaby sees potential in the UK market. “One of our customers in France delivers to the UK, but I don’t have a direct importer there yet,” he said. “This could be an opportunity for the future.”
Like many African exporters, ADF Agro faces obstacles to growth. “As a young company in Africa, the most challenging part is ensuring the availability of quality raw materials, including chemicals and packaging,” said Diaby. “Our farm is 200ha, but we also rely on around 800ha from partner farms. If our partners don’t have the resources for proper treatment, we can’t guarantee the quality needed for export.”
Nevertheless, Diaby remains confident about the future of Côte d’Ivoire’s mango industry, and said his company was fully committed to supplying a premium product to international markets. Even in the face of unpredictable weather patterns, which have affected crops like maize and rice in the country, Diaby is optimistic.
“Mango production is not as sensitive to weather changes as other crops,” he said. “We may sometimes see a reduction in yield as a result of a lack of rain, but we can still guarantee the highest quality mangoes for export.”
