KARACHI: Mango exports went up by 16 per cent to 28,000 tonnes in the first month of the current season as compared to 24,000 tonnes shipped in the same period last year.

Pakistan during the last one year exported mango to at least 47 states, including the European countries where over 2,700 tonnes have so far been exported with an increase of 47 per cent. Last year, 1,400 tonnes were exported to EU. At least 2,000 tonnes were exported to the UK only in 30 days as compared to 900 tonnes in the same period last year. Mango exports began on May 20 this year.

Waheed Ahmed, Chairman, Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association (PFVA), said efforts for improving quality of the fruit are also materialising as mango in the international market is being sold at $550-600 per tonne. However, prior to the imposition of ban on wooden box, Pakistani mangoes were being sold at $250 per tonne.

Even last year, due to the ban, Pakistani mango fetched a price of $450 per tonne.

Usually, 70pc mango is exported to Dubai from where the fruit is supplied to other markets in Gulf countries. So far, more than 14,600 tonnes have been exported to UAE.

For the first time, Pakistan`s mango is being sold in Dubai at a price equivalent to Indian mango. Sometimes, Pakistani mango receives even better price in Dubai.