The export of mango has surged by 23 percent this year and expected to cross $24 million next season.
The Fruits and Vegetables Processor and Exporters Association (FVPEA) President Abdul Mateen Siddiqui said here Monday that last year mango export was estimated at $17 million and this year it has already crossed $23 million.
"Mango is almost finished and its exports which usually continues till October 15 are expected to end by September 15 this year", Mateen observed.
He pointed out that mango exports could have been further risen if that sweet, aromatic and unique-taste fruit was available in the country.
He said that the Middle East, Gulf and Europe were the areas where the export of Pakistani mango increased significantly while export to Far Eastern countries declined.
He said that the availability of space in freighter by four leading airlines including PIA, Lufthansa and Emirates had also facilitated rise in the export of mango this year. It may be noted that PIA had added two additional cargo flights while German airline Lufthansa had also attached two more flights.
Now PIA and Lufthansa were flying four cargo flights a week from Pakistan to various destinations in Europe, Middle East and Gulf countries.
Similarly, exports to short distance destinations like Middle East and Gulf area would also be increased as mango could be shipped through sea routes at economical rates. Last year, mango export was estimated at 61,000 metric tons while this year it was expected to cross 85,000 metric tons, Mateen added.