A perspective on the South African mango industry (past & future).
Finnemore H. J.
Author Affiliation: S. A. Mango Growers' Association, P.O. Box 3749, Tzaneen 0850, South Africa.
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Abstract : The mango industry in South Africa is 28 years old and has grown significantly with the introduction of the Florida (USA) cultivars. A tree census conducted in 1995 established that there were 8000 ha with 3 million trees and an industry production of 40?000 MT. The mango industry depends heavily on the processing sector. Of the present production of 56?000 MT (1998), 40% is processed to achar, 15% is processed to juice, 15% is exported mainly to Europe, and 30% is sold to the local market. A small proportion of 3000 t of fresh mangoes is dried annually. According to the tree census, industry production could double by the year 2000 to 90?000 MT. Climatological problems are mainly responsible for the underachievement of predicted growth. Disease and insect damage are serious threats to certain production areas and stringent market requirements by certain importing countries have made mangoes a difficult crop to produce and market. The South African mango industry has initiated a research programme that is determined by the producer members and funded by levy contributions. This allows every individual to have a say in determining their requirements regarding research and promotion funding. In this review, problems facing the industry are highlighted and current and potential remedial measures are indicated.