Ecuadorian mango growers want to increase their presence in the UK, despite the stringent requirements necessary to export to the market.
Bernardo Malo, president of the Mango Ecuador Foundation and executive president of Refin SA - one of two Ecuadorian firms sending mangoes to the UK - said that at the moment, only a small percentage of the country’s mangoes are heading to the UK.
“Depending on market conditions, we export 80 per cent of our mangoes,” he told freshinfo. “Around 70 per cent of exports go to the US and the remaining 30 per cent head to Europe, Canada and Mexico.”
The main varieties grown are Tommy Atkins, which is popular in the US market because of its colour, and Kent, which is popular in European countries because it is fibreless. Small volumes of Keitt are also grown. The season runs from October to mid-January.
“We are promoting among our growers the importance of traceability, controls and certification and we are on the right track,” said Malo.
The third International Ecuadorian Mango Congress will take place on September 9-10.
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