| Statements by Myrna Castro, Managing Director of EMEX (Association of Mango Exporters of Mexico) | The commercial evolution of the Mexican mango during the COVID-19 pandemic, its challenges and commercial opportunities, and its commercial opportunities within the Commercial Agreement between the European Union and Mexico, are the main axes of the interview with Myrna Castro, Managing Director of EMEX (Association of Mango Exporters of Mexico). -How was the demand for Mexican mangoes during the COVID-19 pandemic? -The export compared to the year 2019 decreased by 8% as well as the production of the product, at the beginning of the pandemic they canceled several commercial contracts given the market uncertainty and the difficult logistical displacement, today the mango is being required in markets and this has helped demand. -Which international markets have had better commercial behavior for the mango of Mexico during COVID-19? -Markets are available, but the logistical ease is what helps us with shipments to mainly the United States. -What are your expectations in the POST COVID-19 stage for the commercialization of mango from Mexico -The mango season is very advanced, so the work to be done is post-harvest, where producers must invest to prepare for next year's production. -In your opinion, what possibilities are open to the mango of Mexico with the trade agreement between the EU and Mexico? -There is an interesting window to export to the European Union, we can comply with the established protocols; Regarding logistics, the shipping option is being visualized where the days of transfer will be reduced, which would greatly benefit our product, without forgetting the air option.
The mango from Mexico has quality, flavor and aroma that can be competitive in the EU and position ourselves in the customer's taste. -Do you consider that the markets of Russia and Japan are complementary to that of the United States for the mango of Mexico? -Yes, of course, Japan is an attractive market for Mexico to which it has been exporting from years ago and seeks to increase exports year by year.
Russia is an opportunity in which we must work since its greatest requirements are at the end of our season.
This poses challenges and innovation, not to mention that exports to Russia are already taking place. -What commercial options does the Middle East offer to the Mexican mango? -It is always attractive to venture into new markets, but for this you have to work in logistics, that this year we are a bit detained, as well as review the protocols that are required. -With what volume of production do you plan to close the current campaign? -We are going to close with 64,000,000 million boxes to the United States. -Is it expected that the consumption of organic mango will increase in the short and medium term? -Of course, the markets are the ones that require it, and organic mango is in good demand, and little by little it is growing, as consumers increasingly demand a more organic diet. -What challenges is the Mexican mango sector facing in the new normal? -To carry out an organizational restructuring, from economic points of view, legal regulations, protocols, personnel, new forms of work, supplies, continuity in the work of food security, quality, technology and innovation. -When can Mexican mango be exported to China? -Interesting question should have a protocol that has not yet started and we wish it could be achieved, I cannot say shortly because these processes are slow, but we will be waiting for it. -How are the preparations for the III International Congress on Mango in Mexico to be held in 2021? -The exact date is being analyzed, given the changes and uncertainty that is being experienced with COVID-19.
Notice will be given soon. - In what situation is the EMEX mango brand? -We already have a first stage that is restructuring, qualities to measure, we will start what is implementation. - Has your journey already begun? -We are working on it, not as quickly as we would have liked, due to the mobilization restrictions that our country has had. -What challenges are mangoes in Mexico facing in the immediate future, both in the production area and in the marketing area? -To climate changes, increased production with quality, safety, innovation and efficiency in all aspects.
Source: Francisco Seva