Peru's mango season has got off to a slow start this season, but the country has been increasing its numbers of approved plants for U.S. export over the last two weeks.

The Peruvian Association of Mango Producers and Exporters (APEM) says two plants were certified in week 49, while another three were planned during this week (week 50).

The association reported an 87.3% year-on-year fall in the campaign to week 49 with an accumulated export total of 60 containers.

The Netherlands was the leading market destination with a 48% share, followed by Chile (23%), Spain (11%) and the U.K. (6%).

The association reported exports had still not been sent to the U.S. by week 49.

APEM said a quality sample last week included mangoes that did not meet minimum ripeness requirements, recommending growers take more caution as a physiologically unripe fruit will not complete ripening during the voyage, leading to 'serious quality problems' on arrival.

Photo: Minag

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