1. Weekly News

Mexico

Mango Prices Double in Guadalajara Due to Off-Season Scarcity

Mango prices in Guadalajara, Mexico have nearly doubled at markets like Felipe Ángeles, soaring to USD 90 to 100 per kilogram (kg) in W1 compared to USD 48/kg in 2024. This spike stems from off-season supply shortages, adverse climate conditions, and economic factors like currency fluctuations. With peak mango season yet to arrive, the scarcity and high costs further strain consumer budgets during the challenging post-holiday "January slope."

Spain

Malaga Farmers Shift to Mangoes for Higher Profitability and Water Efficiency

In Málaga, Spain, farmers increasingly shift from avocado to mango cultivation due to mangoes' lower water requirements and higher profitability. This transition is particularly significant in areas like Torrox, where groundwater resources have enabled continued production despite ongoing drought conditions. The high prices achieved this season have further encouraged this shift. Osteen mangoes, for instance, averaged USD 1.77 to 1.87/kg (EUR 1.70 to 1.80/kg) and peaked at USD 2.29 to 2.50/kg (EUR 2.20 to 2.40/kg), while Keitt mangoes closed the season at USD 2.70/kg (EUR 2.60/kg). In response to these favorable market conditions, farmers are expanding their Keitt mango plantations, with nurseries already sold out for 2025, reflecting strong demand for young mango plants. The exclusivity of mango cultivation in the Axarquía region and the Costa Tropical area of Granada further enhances its appeal, positioning these regions as key players in Spain's mango industry.

Paraguay

Paraguay Moves Toward Certified Mango Exports

Paraguay is advancing its mango production certification process to begin exporting certified batches within two years, as announced by SENAVE (National Plant and Seed Quality and Health Service). The certification efforts include pest control programs like fruit fly surveillance, pesticide residue testing, and product classification by size and color. The primary certified variety is Tommy Atkins, which is grown in Eusebio Ayala. This initiative enhances Paraguay's potential to access international markets, setting the stage for broader global export expansion. Chile is the first target market.

Peru

Peru's 2024/25 Mango Campaign Begins Early Due to Weather Challenges

Driven by unusual weather patterns and water shortages that triggered premature ripening, Peru’s 2024/25 mango campaign began in late Aug-24, two months earlier than usual. Export forecasts were reduced from 240 thousand to 190 thousand tons, with 74.3 thousand tons already exported. Piura remains the primary production hub, accounting for 80% of the crop. Peak exports are anticipated in December and January. The campaign may extend until March, depending on rainfall. Improved flowering conditions at the end of 2024 offer optimism for the season despite initial challenges.

Peru's Mango Industry Struggles with Low Prices and Production Challenges

The Peruvian mango season has been marked by historically low prices, with producers losing up to 50% of their investment. Harvesting in Piura began on Oct-24 and it faced challenges from La Niña-induced cold weather, causing early ripening and competition with Brazil and Ecuador in key export markets like Europe and the United States (US). Despite production costs of USD 3.18 per 20-kg crate (PEN 12/12-kg crate), sales dropped to as low as USD 1.59/12-kg crate (PEN 6/12-kg crate), leading to significant financial losses. A 40% drop in production and a water crisis on Peru's northern coast have further strained the industry. With over 34 thousand hectares (ha) of mango cultivation in Piura, producers urge the government to provide loans and financial assistance to manage debts and navigate these difficulties.

2. Weekly Pricing

Weekly Mango Pricing Important Exporters (USD/kg)

Yearly Change in Mango Pricing Important Exporters (W1 2024 to W1 2025)

Peru

Mango prices in Peru decreased by 2.86% week-on-week (WoW) to USD 0.34/kg in W1. This reflects a 33.33% month-on-month (MoM) drop and a significant 73.23% year-on-year (YoY) decline. The price drop is due to a 40% reduction in production, driven by La Niña-induced cold weather that caused early ripening and a severe water crisis on Peru's northern coast. Aside from the drop in production, prices also fell due to intense competition from Brazil and Ecuador in key export markets like Europe and the US. The intense competition and financial strain on producers have led to a sharp YoY decline. The challenging market conditions, including unsustainably low sales prices, have further worsened the difficulties faced by producers.

3. Actionable Recommendations

Strengthen Water Management for Stable Mango Exports

To mitigate the impact of water shortages on mango production, Peruvian mango exporters should prioritize water management strategies. This includes investing in efficient irrigation systems like drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting to reduce dependency on unpredictable rainfall. Producers can improve the consistency of flowering and fruit ripening by optimizing water use, particularly in Piura, ensuring stable export volumes throughout the campaign. Additionally, exploring partnerships with agricultural technology providers for innovative irrigation systems can help improve overall yield and reduce the risk of premature ripening, ensuring more reliable and timely exports.

Expand Mango Cultivation in Malaga for Increased Profitability

Farmers in Malaga should focus on expanding their mango plantations, especially Keitt mangoes, which are gaining popularity due to their high profitability and lower water needs than avocados. To capitalize on this shift, growers should enhance production efficiency by investing in water-efficient irrigation systems, particularly in areas like Torrox, where groundwater resources have proven reliable. Securing nursery stock for the upcoming season is crucial to meet growing demand. Farmers can solidify their position in the lucrative mango market by prioritizing Keitt mango production and optimizing returns.

Sources: Tridge, Agraria, APEM, Dfsud, Freshplaza, Navas Carrillo S.L., Partidero, SEDIRSENAVE