Issues and advances in commercializing sea-freight technology of mangoes

Abstract

With ever growing international mango trade, sea-freighting mangoes has become a commercial interest both for the exporters and importers, since it is the most economical mean of bulk transportation and making mangoes available at affordable prices in the import markets. Mangoes are being sea-freighted using a range of containers, in different parts of the world. Static R and D trials and physical sea-freight shipments show variable success, mainly on account of the produce specific and supply chain logistics limitations. To be commercially successful, it needs a system built around the technology starting from orchard to the consumer. Further, launching a new product which is substantially different from the current lines of fruit in the market requires educating handlers and buyers. New concept of mango orchard rating based on postharvest disease development and quality is being tested, to help devise an orchard registration program for successful mango sea-freighting to distant markets. There has been little documented information on mango sea-freight work from an international perspective. This joint industry paper is based on the progress made in mango sea-freight shipments from Australia and Pakistan highlighting related issues for commercializing this technology in future. © ISHS 2013.