Deciphering Value Chain Dynamics and Assessing Strategies to Reduce Pre- & Post-Harvest Losses for Mangoes in Sindh and Punjab provinces of Pakistan

Abstract

Mango is the second largest fruit crop after citrus that makes a significant socio-economic contribution to the Pakistan’s economy. However, the performance of mango VC is regarded to be suboptimal and caused mango losses needs upgrading to achieve full potential. The starting point for any upgrading strategy should be deciphering the dynamics of the industry’s value chains (VCs). The present study aimed to qualitative examine the dynamics of mango value chains (VCs) in term of types, financial and information flows, and to assess pre- and post- harvest losses and its causes. Data collected through interviews and online surveys of industry actors from retailers including importers backwards to suppliers of inputs. The mango-growers targeted in Punjab and Sindh provinces, and importers from foreign markets. Thematic content analysis identified three types of VCs operating simultaneously in the industry that could be termed traditional, modern, and export mango VCs. These chains, however, differed in their dynamics, such as product, financial, and information flows and chain governance. Traditional chains carried the major mango flows of all quality grades to consumers belonging to all income classes. They were relatively long, unorganized, and governed by spot market transactions. Modern chains were found supplying better quality mangoes to middle and high-income consumers. Export chains mainly targeted foreign consumers. The findings indicate that pre-harvest losses (08%) are primarily caused by factors including climate change, numerous diseases, pests, and fruit fly infestations whereas, post-harvest losses (35-40%) are incurred due to traditional harvesting practices, packaging material, and logistics causing mechanical damages. Pre- and post-harvest losses can be reduced by adopting modern and best production, post-harvest practices and chain performance can be improved by better information flows and more effective chain governance through building collaborative relationships among actors doing business at various stages of mango VCs.