The Tribune International | July 6, 2025
LAHORE: Mangoes, often called the “king of fruits,” are loved across the world for their sweetness, flavor, and health benefits. As global demand for this tropical delight continues to rise, a handful of countries have taken the lead in supplying mangoes to international markets. In 2025, the global mango production has reached nearly 61 million tonnes annually, growing at a steady rate of 1.9% per year. While many countries grow mangoes, only a few dominate the export market — and some of the top names may surprise you.
Topping the list is Mexico, which has firmly secured its position as the world’s largest mango exporter, shipping over 450,000 metric tonnes annually. Its close proximity to the United States gives it a strategic advantage in delivering fresh mangoes quickly. Popular varieties such as Ataulfo, known for its buttery texture, and Tommy Atkins, prized for its long shelf life, are in high demand in international markets. With a nearly year-round mango season, Mexico continues to lead the global mango trade.
Coming in next is Peru, which exports more than 25,000 metric tonnes of mangoes each year, mainly to the United States and Europe. The Kent mango, grown primarily in northern Peru, is especially favored for its sweet flavor and low fibre content. What sets Peru apart is its commitment to organic farming practices, making its mangoes particularly attractive to health-conscious consumers across the globe.
In a surprising twist, the Netherlands ranks among the top mango-exporting countries despite having minimal domestic mango production. Instead, it acts as a major re-export hub, distributing more than 200,000 metric tonnes of imported mangoes from countries like Brazil and Peru. With its world-class cold storage and transport infrastructure — especially through the Port of Rotterdam — the Netherlands plays a crucial role in supplying mangoes across Europe.
Brazil also stands out, exporting over 150,000 metric tonnes of mangoes annually. Its key production zone, the São Francisco Valley, is ideal for growing varieties such as Palmer and Tommy Atkins. Brazilian mangoes are mostly shipped to European markets, where their quality and volume make them a reliable choice for importers.
Finally, India, the world’s largest producer of mangoes, holds the fifth spot in exports. Despite massive domestic consumption limiting its export volume, India still manages to export over 120,000 metric tonnes every year. Premium varieties like Alphonso, Kesar, and Banganapalli are well-loved in the Middle East, UK, and USA for their rich flavor and aroma. India’s mangoes are considered a luxury in many markets, thanks to their heritage and unique taste profiles.
In conclusion, while Mexico continues to dominate mango exports with unmatched volume and consistency, other countries like Peru, the Netherlands, Brazil, and India bring their own strengths to the global mango market — whether through quality, logistics, or heritage. With the world’s appetite for mangoes growing every year, these nations are not just selling fruit — they are serving culture, flavor, and tradition with every shipment.
Pakistan, despite being one of the world’s largest producers of mangoes, does not appear in the top-5 mango exporting countries in 2025.
Why Isn’t Pakistan among the top-5 mango exporters in 2025?
While Pakistan is globally recognized for its rich mango varieties like Sindhri, Chaunsa, Langra, and Anwar Ratol, it surprisingly does not make it into the top-5 mango exporting countries this year. Despite being among the top producers of mangoes worldwide, Pakistan’s export volume remains limited due to several persistent challenges.
These include post-harvest losses, lack of cold chain infrastructure, inefficient supply chains, and stringent international quality standards that are not consistently met. Moreover, limited branding and marketing efforts also affect Pakistan’s competitiveness in global markets.
Countries like Mexico, Brazil, and India have built strong export systems with better logistics and packaging, while Peru and Netherlands have carved niches through organic farming and re-export expertise. Pakistan, despite its premium taste profile, continues to lag in volume and compliance with phytosanitary requirements — a key to accessing high-end markets like the EU and USA.
Experts believe that with targeted reforms in packaging, quality control, air freight subsidies, and branding, Pakistan has the potential to enter the top-tier mango-exporting countries in the coming years.
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