Sri Lanka exports 85% of its mangoes to West Asia, with shipments rising over the past five years. Mango cultivation expanded by 11% from 2015 to 2022, reaching 31,000 hectares, and production increased by 30% to 193,000 metric tons.
Australia's Market Development Facility (MDF) recently hosted the 'Ripe for Innovation' symposium in Colombo, focusing on Sri Lanka's TomEJC mango sector. Industry leaders, government representatives, and development partners explored export prospects.
Discussion centered on elevating TomEJC mango exports. With over one million plants cultivated, a potential crop of 50,000 metric tons is expected. Current export volumes are approximately 431 metric tons. Economic instability, rising production costs, and climate events have impacted recent export performance.
In the UK, mango consumption has risen due to increased availability and affordability. In China, mangoes lead domestic tropical fruit sales due to flavor and nutritional content.
MDF analysis indicates opportunities for Sri Lanka to promote fresh mango in China and West Asia during competitors' off-seasons. Importers' decisions rely on factors like free trade agreements, proximity, volumes, quality, and trust. Sri Lankan growers, processors, and exporters observe strong demand for TomEJC mango in export markets. Many are keen to expand processing capacity to source mangoes from all grades and secure supplier networks.
Australian High Commissioner Paul Stephens stated, "Australia, through the MDF, has consistently supported Sri Lanka's agriculture sector since 2017, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to the country's economic development."
Source: Sunday Times