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In Maharashtra, India, the 2024 mango season began with the arrival of Devgad Kesar mangoes at the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) market, replacing the usual Alphonso variety due to delays caused by an extended monsoon. The first batch of five dozen Kesar mangoes fetched a premium price of USD 196.48 (INR 17,000), reflecting the growing cultivation of Kesar mangoes in Maharashtra's Konkan region, which has traditionally been known for Alphonso mangoes. As Kesar mango cultivation expands in the region, their availability and market positioning as a premium variety contributes to higher prices, especially early in the season. The heavy rains also impacted early flowering in Kerala, which delayed the season's start. However, traders expect increased production starting in March, which should stabilize supply and reduce prices as the season progresses.
In Southern Sinaloa, particularly in the municipalities of Rosario and Escuinapa, mango trees, especially the Ataulfo variety, have begun flowering earlier than usual, with the first harvests expected in May. However, reduced rainfall and low soil moisture present significant risks, potentially leading to smaller fruit sizes, premature flower drop, and overall production declines. Farmers are concerned that dry conditions may hinder flowering, particularly in orchards where poor panicle formation could lead to aborted bloom. To counter these risks, farmers stress the importance of efficient irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation and micro-sprinkling, to optimize production. If dry conditions persist, it may potentially affect the harvest and farmers could face challenges in meeting production targets.
Mango demand in the United States (US) is increasing with the start of the new year, and Peru is responding with a strong supply of Kent mangoes, its leading export variety. This season marks a significant improvement compared to 2024 when El Niño caused an 80% reduction in Peruvian mango exports. Shipments of Kent mangoes are expected to remain strong throughout Jan-25, with volumes gradually declining in February and March.
Favorable weather conditions have supported high-quality produce and stable prices. Meanwhile, Mexico is preparing to launch its Ataulfo mango season in mid-Jan-25. This will be followed by red mango production in mid-February, ensuring a steady supply to complement Peru’s mango exports in the US market.
Mango prices in Peru dropped by 11.76% week-on-week (WoW) to USD 0.30 per kilogram (kg) in W2, reflecting a 28.57% month-on-month (MoM) and 75% year-on-year (YoY) decrease. The price drop is due to the seasonal peak in Kent mango supply, as favorable weather conditions have led to high-quality produce and stable production levels. While demand in the US is strong, the increase in supply during this time of the year, along with the gradual decline in shipments expected through February and March, has exerted downward pressure on prices. Additionally, the YoY decrease is partly driven by the low prices in 2024 following El Niño-related production disruptions, which were not present in the current season.
Farmers in Southern Sinaloa should prioritize implementing efficient irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation and micro-sprinkling to mitigate the risks of reduced rainfall and soil moisture. Focus on ensuring that the Santa María Dam provides adequate irrigation for flowering and panicle formation, which will help optimize mango production and avoid potential yield losses due to dry conditions.
Traders in Maharashtra should manage the expected increase in Kesar mango production starting in March by securing reliable sourcing channels and optimizing storage and transportation capabilities. Collaborating with local farmers to ensure timely harvesting and quality control will help maintain supply consistency as production ramps up. Additionally, planning for adequate market promotion and adjusting pricing strategies in advance will allow for smoother transitions and minimize price volatility. Managing these factors proactively will ensure that traders can capitalize on the growing supply while maintaining price stability throughout the season.
Sources: Tridge, Agraria, Diariodechiapas, Freshplaza, Msn, Oem, Lineadirectaportal
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