STAFF REPORT KHI: Pakistani export of mango is on the decline as it witnessed reduction of 35,000 tons of mango this year against the target.
“The country has exported at least 0.115 million tons of mango this year as compared to the target of 0.15 million tons and earned $39 million foreign exchange,” revealed Waheed Ahmed, the newly elected Chairman Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchant Association (PFVA), while talking to the media here.
Mango exporters have cited the lack of air connections, issues in ANF, Customs and shipping lines and others behind the reduction of mango exports this year.
“Logistic issues at shipping companies and Pakistan International Airlines were the major hindrances the exporters faced the most this year which remained unresolved despite repeated and timely complains,” Waheed explained adding PIA flights offload consignments at various airports without any justification which also results in cancellation of import orders.
Besides, 100 per cent examination of consignments at ports by ANF not only caused delay in shipment but also affected the quality of exportable fruits badly resulting cancellation of import orders.
He demanded to accelerate the process of issuing SOP to the Australian government for the export of mango from Pakistan to start the trade at least by next season.