A constraints analysis of mango supply chain improvement in Pakistan

In Pakistan the production of fruits and vegetables is not fully utilised, and after domestic consumption a major part of the crop is wasted. Yet its horticultural sector is significant for domestic production and also for export, mainly to markets in the Middle East, Europe and other Asian countries. Problems include a lack of infrastructure, few storage and processing facilities, along with poor market intelligence and communication. An improved understanding of the system from grower to domestic and export markets would boost utilisation and prevent waste. Identifying and analysing the constraints of supply chains for mangoes would help Pakistani mango growers receive increased value from their produce. This research sought to identify these constraints and associated impediments in representative supply chains and to provide recommendations for future research.

The project achieved its objectives, identifying the various components of the representative supply chains for mangoes in Pakistan and recording associated impediments and constraints. In addition to providing a scope for a subsequent supply chain project, this stand-alone small research activity provided valuable information on existing supply chains in Pakistan. This was of benefit in developing the three-year project associated with the Australia-Pakistan Agriculture Sector Linkages Program (HORT/2005/157 Optimising mango supply chains for more profitable horticultural agri-enterprise in Pakistan and Australia). It also provided useful data for the development of HORT/2005/160 Increasing citrus productivity in Pakistan through improved orchard management techniques and more efficient use of inputs.