TZ eyes mango sector growth to tap global market

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA is seeking to unlock the economic potential of its mango industry through increased investment in processing, infrastructure and innovation, as stakeholders push to position the country in the growing global market.

Experts say the sector holds significant opportunities beyond fresh fruit exports, particularly in processed products such as juice, chutneys and oils, as well as high-value by-products like mango kernel oil and ecofriendly materials derived from peels.

“There are strong opportunities in value addition that can increase earnings and open access to niche markets,” The Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (AGCOT) Chief Executive Officer, Mr Geoffrey Kirenga said. However, the industry continues to face key challenges, including limited access to quality planting materials, shrinking farmland due to urban expansion and low processing capacity.

“Only a small share of mangoes is processed locally, exposing farmers to postharvest losses and unstable prices,” he added.

According to the recently AGCOT publication report, it highlights the need for targeted investments and policy support to transform the industry into a globally competitive sector. Stakeholders are now calling for large-scale processing plants to absorb surplus production, reduce waste and create export-ready products.

“This would strengthen Tanzania’s competitiveness against leading producers such as India and emerging exporters like Malawi,” said Mr Kirenga.

A renowned agronomist and visionary farmer, Dr Salum Diwani said the global mango market continues to expand, offering the country a strategic opportunity.

“Tanzania is among the few countries capable of producing mangoes during the global off-season, which creates strong export potential,” said Dr Diwani who is revolutionising mango cultivation at Koga Farm, a 200-acre plantation in Mkuranga.

He said despite this advantage, infrastructure gaps remain a major constraint. Poor rural roads, limited cold storage facilities and weak transport systems continue to hinder market access and contribute to losses across the value chain. He stressed the need for collective action to address these bottlenecks.

“We need practical solutions that empower farmers and tackle systemic challenges in the sector,” he said.

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Sustainability is also emerging as a key driver of growth. Octavian Lasway, an AGCOT-backed eco platform, said mango farming offers both economic and environmental benefits, particularly in supporting climate resilience.

“Mango trees contribute to income generation while also helping with carbon capture and environmental conservation,” he said.

He projected strong growth in the sector over the coming years, driven by innovation and partnerships.

“In the next seven to ten years, Tanzania could witness a mango revolution if the right investments are made,” Mr Lasway said.

Andrew Temu also called for sustained collaboration across the value chain to drive long-term transformation. With about 99 per cent of production coming from smallholder farmers, the sector presents a major opportunity to boost rural incomes and export earnings.

According to AGCOT report, the global mango market, valued at 67.95 billion US dollars in 2024 with a compound annual growth rate of 6.7 per cent, presents an extraordinary opportunity for Tanzania.

As the 12th largest mango producer globally, Tanzania’s annual production of 700,000 metric tonnes positions it as a key player. However, limited value addition, pest control issues and inadequate infrastructure hinder the industry’s full potential.