Pakistan cuts mango export target as Middle East tensions drive up freight costs

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reduced its mango export target for the current season from 110,000 tonnes to 80,000 tonnes amid rising logistical challenges linked to tensions in the Middle East, industry officials said.

The first export consignment of Pakistani mangoes is scheduled to leave for international markets on Monday, but exporters are warning that soaring freight costs, shipping disruptions and lower production could significantly affect the country’s export earnings.

According to Waheed Ahmed, Chairman of the All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association, access to Gulf markets has become increasingly difficult due to regional instability.

He said sea freight costs have surged from around $1,200 per container to as high as $7,000, while air freight rates have risen from 90 cents per kilogram to nearly $2 per kilogram.

The Gulf region accounts for approximately 35 per cent of Pakistan’s mango exports, raising concerns that higher transportation costs and supply chain disruptions could weaken demand in one of the country’s most important markets.

As a result, export earnings from mangoes are now expected to remain between $75 million and $80 million, lower than previous projections.

Production concerns add to export challenges

Exporters are also facing production-related difficulties. Ahmed warned that climate change and plant diseases could further reduce mango output this year.

Industry estimates suggest mango production may remain around 20 per cent below average levels during the current season, limiting exportable surplus despite strong international demand.

He added that the continued closure of the Afghanistan border could hamper exports to Central Asian states, another growing market for Pakistani fruit.

However, Ahmed expressed optimism about opportunities in neighbouring Iran, saying demand for Pakistani mangoes is expected to increase there this season.

Government urged to support exporters

Despite calls from some quarters to allow early shipments, the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of National Food Security decided to maintain the official export start date of June 1, insisting that only fully ripened and quality-certified mangoes should be exported.

Ahmed said improved fruit quality could still help boost exports and strengthen Pakistan’s position in international markets.

He stressed that government support would be essential if the revised export target is to be achieved. Exporters have called for immediate intervention to address freight constraints, speed up port clearances and strengthen diplomatic engagement with countries affected by the regional crisis.

“Shipping services have been disrupted due to the regional situation, and vessels are facing delays,” Ahmed said, warning that even the reduced export target could prove difficult to achieve if logistical problems remain unresolved.

He added that a significant decline in mango exports could not only reduce Pakistan’s foreign exchange earnings but also weaken the country’s share in the global mango market.