Exporters seek freight relief as geopolitical instability disrupts key mango markets
Pakistan mango export sector is facing mounting challenges due to geopolitical tensions in Afghanistan and the Middle East, threatening one of the country’s most valuable agricultural export industries.
According to exporters, nearly 80% of Pakistan’s mango exports are traditionally shipped to Afghanistan and Gulf countries, but recent regional instability, border disruptions, and rising transportation costs have significantly impacted trade flows.
The concerns were discussed during a high-level consultative meeting chaired by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain with leading mango exporters and industry stakeholders.
Exporters warn of severe trade disruptions
The meeting brought together officials from the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, export associations, horticulture representatives, and logistics stakeholders to assess export performance and discuss emerging challenges.
Exporters informed the government that the closure of the Afghanistan border and instability across parts of the Gulf region have disrupted traditional trade routes at a critical time for Pakistan’s mango export season.
Industry representatives also highlighted rising fuel prices, freight charges, and shipping costs, which have increased export expenses and reduced competitiveness in international markets.
Government considers freight subsidy support
Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain acknowledged the seriousness of the challenges and assured exporters that the government is preparing immediate support measures to protect the sector.
He said Pakistan’s mango industry is a high-value agricultural asset that must be strengthened through coordinated efforts between the government and private sector.
The minister revealed that the government is considering transport and freight subsidies to help exporters offset rising logistics costs and maintain export competitiveness globally.
Focus on value-added mango products
During the meeting, the minister urged exporters to shift focus from bulk exports toward value-added and branded mango products.
He emphasized the importance of improving packaging, branding, and processing capabilities to develop premium export products such as mango pulp, puree, dried mangoes, and ready-to-eat packaged varieties.
According to the minister, Pakistan must establish a stronger international identity for high-quality mango products rather than relying primarily on raw fruit exports.
Diversifying export destinations
Rana Tanveer Hussain also stressed the need to diversify export destinations beyond Afghanistan and Gulf countries to reduce dependence on a limited number of markets.
He encouraged exporters to explore opportunities in East Asia, Central Asia, and high-value European markets through better quality certification, compliance standards, and international marketing strategies.
Government plans export facilitation framework
The minister said the government is working on a coordinated export facilitation framework involving the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, the Ministry of Commerce, and provincial departments.
The proposed framework aims to streamline logistics, reduce export bottlenecks, and strengthen cold chain infrastructure for horticulture exports.
Officials were directed to prepare a detailed policy proposal covering freight subsidies, export financing support, and infrastructure upgrades for the mango export industry.
Mango exports critical for foreign exchange earnings
The minister noted that agricultural exports remain a key pillar of Pakistan’s economy and foreign exchange earnings, while mangoes continue to be among the country’s most internationally recognized fruit products.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting exporters during the current period of geopolitical uncertainty and ensuring measures to sustain and expand Pakistan’s mango exports globally.