Egyptian mango season promises exceptional harvest

EGYPT – The Egyptian mango season is set to commence, with producers optimistic about this year’s yield.

In an exclusive interview Walid Sallam, Export Manager and Technical Consultant with Egyptian companies, such as MK Enterprise and Suez Canal Trade and Agricultural Development, expressed that despite challenges from climate change, the quality and volume of mangoes are expected to remain consistent.

“Year on year, Egyptian mango technicians and growers are adapting better and better to climate change,” says Sallam,

“We always make sure that quality starts in the field, with a good program of fertilization, irrigation, and protection during the growing season.”

Egyptian mango trees have faced significant stresses over the past five years. A cold snap in December harms young branches and damages older ones, while summer heatwaves affect flowering and reduce production.

However, these problems have been mitigated through careful analysis and precautionary practices developed by Egypt’s leading mango experts in collaboration with agricultural academics.

Sallam is optimistic about this year’s mango crop. “Following our visits to various mango farms, the quality and quantity are very good, and export quality will be trouble-free this year.”

He highlights the extension of cultivation areas and higher yields per hectare as key factors contributing to increased production. This growth positions Egypt as a significant player in the global mango market.

The Keitt variety, known for its long harvest calendar, long shelf life, and high demand, is particularly prevalent in Egyptian nurseries.

Last year, there was strong demand from Russia and Saudi Arabia, prompting producers to work in two shifts to meet customer needs. Recent conversations with importers from these countries, as well as Lebanon, have reinforced expectations for a successful season.

Logistical challenges, particularly long shipping times, have also been addressed. Sallam notes that Russia imported around 30% of all Egyptian mango exports last year, followed by Saudi Arabia with about 20%.

To maintain the quality of mangoes during transport, techniques involving temperature, ventilation, and ethylene control have been refined. “We have found the best technical formula, which will enable us to improve our volumes to Russia and other distant destinations,” Sallam explains.

The exact date for the start of the season is yet to be announced, but the harvest is expected within the next two weeks to two months, depending on the variety.

Mango ripening is the primary criterion for harvest decisions, ensuring good picking and quality arrivals abroad.

Criteria such as skin color, internal flesh color, soluble solids content (SSC), and fruit firmness guide the decision to harvest and export.

The geographical harvest schedule will follow the usual pattern, starting in Upper Egypt (Aswan, then Luxor), moving to Ismailia where local varieties like Mabrouka, Oweesy, Sideeka, Zebdya, Naomy, Alfons, and Taymour are grown, and culminating in the Alexandria-Cairo road region for high-quality export mangoes.

“We will do everything to ensure that Egypt continues to produce some of the best mangoes in the world,” Sallam concludes.

As the season progresses, mango lovers around the globe can look forward to enjoying these delicious fruits, a true testament to Egypt’s agricultural prowess.

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