Pakistan's Mango Industry Faces Crisis Due to Climate Change

The mango production in Pakistan is currently experiencing a critical situation with a third consecutive year of decline. The province of Punjab is anticipating a decrease of 35-40%, while Sindh is likely to witness a drop of less than 20%. This decline is expected to result in a total production reduction of 600,000 tonnes, posing a severe threat to the country's agricultural economy and export markets.

Climate change is playing a significant role in the challenges faced by mango orchards in Pakistan. Unpredictable weather patterns, including prolonged winters, heavy rains, hailstorms, and severe heatwaves, are adversely affecting the growth and quality of mangoes. This has led to a shortage of export-quality mangoes, which is particularly concerning for a country that exports to major markets such as China, America, Turkey, and Japan.

The economic repercussions of the declining mango production are substantial. Last year, mango exports fell short of the target of 125,000 tonnes, reaching only 100,000 tonnes. This year, the projected revenue from mango exports is $90 million. Furthermore, the value-added sector, which encompasses mango processing, packaging, and warehousing, is encountering difficulties due to escalating costs of electricity, gas, transportation, and water management, making international competition more challenging.

It is imperative for both federal and provincial governments to take prompt and effective action to address the impact of climate change on agriculture. Increased investment in agricultural research is crucial to develop new mango varieties that can withstand changing climates. Additionally, offering comprehensive support to farmers in terms of modern agricultural practices and disease management is essential to sustain and boost mango production. Without urgent efforts to tackle these issues, there is a risk not only of the decline of the mango industry but also of the loss of its significant economic contribution.

The declining mango production in Pakistan due to climate change poses a serious threat to the country's agricultural economy and export markets. Immediate action is required from government authorities to invest in research, support farmers, and address the challenges faced by the mango industry. By taking proactive measures, Pakistan can work towards ensuring the sustainability and growth of its mango production sector, safeguarding its economic contributions and international competitiveness.