04 July 2004	Sunday	15 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1425

ISLAMABAD, July 3: Mango exports can be doubled by saving post-harvest losses and adopting healthy and quality standards.

Pakistan's share in the international mango export was not significant as compared to other countries, including Brazil, which has secured 37 per cent share alone in the European Union as against one per cent of Pakistan.

"Our exports to Japan, the US, Germany and Australia are facing ban primarily because of 'fruit fly' issue. New disease problems like Decline Syndrome has affected its productivity," says an official.

Lack of awareness on health and hygiene and quality regulations of trading partners has also contributed negatively towards mango trade development.

The government was considering a plan for bringing about an improvement in the situation and thus enhancing productivity in line with international standards.-APP