According to EastFruit, Southeast Asia may soon become a new export market for one of Egypt's most surprising fruits: mangoes. This seems unrealistic, given that the region has at least five well-known mango producers and net exporters (Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, and Indonesia), the latter being the second-largest mango producer in the world. However, some markets in Southeast Asia could become promising destinations for Egyptian mango exports, which are currently being actively developed in other regions such as Europe and the Middle East.
“Despite Southeast Asia being the leading exporter of mangoes, the region also imports a significant amount of these fruits. Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand are among the top 20 importers globally. Most imports are within the region, with China and India also importing, and smaller amounts going to other countries. However, with total annual volumes sometimes reaching up to 150,000 tonnes, even a small fraction of this represents a huge opportunity and a promising new market niche,” comments Yehuhen Quzin, fruit and vegetable market analyst at East Fruit.
For example, Singapore alone imports 20,000-25,000 tonnes of mangoes per year, while Thailand and Malaysia account for 80-85% of total imports, both for domestic cultivation and re-export. Other minor suppliers include Asian countries such as India, China, Indonesia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan, as well as Australia. Australia supplies the Singapore market mainly in the autumn and early winter, while Asian suppliers supply throughout the year, with a peak season from March to June.
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“Targeting the markets of Singapore and other Southeast Asian countries would definitely represent tough competition for Egyptian suppliers, given the presence of local growers and suppliers from neighboring countries. Therefore, Egypt's traditional strategy of selling mass-market varieties at low prices is not viable in this case. Instead, focusing on so-called super mangoes, little known to consumers outside Egypt, would allow us to target the premium market segment and avoid direct competition with the majority of suppliers,” explains Yevhen Kuzin.
Egypt has over 200 mango varieties, most of which are unknown worldwide. Egyptian exporters usually use only a few varieties, prioritizing ease of transportation over taste and aroma. However, other lesser known local varieties can also be considered “super mangoes” for their exceptional sweetness, unique flavor, aroma and taste.
“Air transport of these local sweet super mangoes to destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia provides a valuable opportunity for Egyptian exporters focused on high-value exports. Currently, the domestic wholesale price of Egyptian mangoes ranges from $0.25 to $0.90 per kilogram. Combined with air freight logistics costs to Singapore of approximately $1.20 per kilogram, this creates an ideal opportunity to target the premium segment in the region. Furthermore, it eliminates the maritime logistics risks associated with the Red Sea blockade and allows Egyptian exporters to compete against bulk market suppliers in the region or in countries such as Pakistan and China,” concludes Yevhen Kuzin.
More information on export opportunities for Egyptian fruits and vegetables to Southeast Asia will be presented at a special session of the Asia Fruit Congress, taking place during Asia Fruit Logistica on September 6. Exhibition visitors will also have ample opportunities to secure the best produce deals with Egyptian exporters throughout the three-day fair in Hong Kong.
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