The Mexican mango-producing region of Tierra Caliente has recorded a 30% rise in mango production this season, with an oversupply allowing exporters to be more selective with their produce, website Oem.com.mx reported.

Mango Product System president Xavier Chávez Contreras, told the website there was a glut and oversaturation in the local market, in contrast to the 2010 season when storms led to shortages.

He said around 120,000 metric tons (MT) were produced during the season of which between 55,000MT and 60,000MT was exported, with 80% of shipments bound for the U.S and 12% sent to Canada, the story reported. The region also exported mangoes to Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Chávez Contreras told the website that handling had been well-run this season with good organization between Michoacan growers and packers.

"This year we decided to send the mangoes of the highest quality, with Michoacan being an example for all producing states, which has earned it accolades," he was quoted as saying.

He said between late-April and early-May, Michoacan handlers were paying between MXN2.30 (US$0.19) and MXN3 (US$0.25) per kilogram, organic mangoes were selling for between MXN3.5 (US$0.30) and MXN4.5 (US$0.38), while export mangoes were selling for US$2.35, the story reported.

Tierra Caliente is a southern region that covers parts of Guerrero, Michoacan and the State of Mexico.

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