The study aims to better understand strategic industry and market development issues, research gaps and opportunities for mango at the regional and country-level in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly those which could improve smallholder livelihoods.
Mango is the third most widely grown fruit in the tropics and sub-tropics after watermelon and banana. Global production has increased by some 50% during the last decade, i.e. by an average 4.5% per annum. Mango market supply-demand and trade patterns are dynamic both globally and in the Asia-Pacific region. Domestic demand and export markets are steadily growing and becoming more diversified and sophisticated. Increasing consumer demand for quality, safety, variety, seasonal availability and consistency are creating opportunities and possible barriers for smallholder farmers.
Smallholder farmers grow most mangoes in the Asia-Pacific region. Increasing production, quality, market access and returns for mangoes will directly improve incomes and livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers.
Mango is already a horticulture research priority for many of ACIAR’s partner countries in the region, but information about the market situation and trends for mango, and areas for comparative and competitive information at a country or regional level, is limited.
This study will provide a longer-term perspective to inform ACIAR-funded mango research programs aiming to improve the profitability and livelihoods of regional smallholder tropical fruit farmers through better access to and competitiveness in regional and local markets.