Mango Supply Squeeze Could Create New Opportunities In UK Market

Expected falls in mango production in Ecuador and Peru could tighten UK supplies this winter, while creating opportunities for other supplying countries.

According to Fresh Produce Journal, Robert Ybarra, chief executive of US wholesaler Chico Produce, forecasts Ecuadorian production could fall by approximately 50 per cent compared with last year. Early estimates suggest Peru could record a reduction of 30 per cent or more.

Disruption is anticipated between November 2026 and February 2027, potentially extending into March. Ybarra said unusually warm conditions had affected flowering and fruit development in key Peruvian growing regions.

Brazilian shipments could help ease pressure, although greater competition for fruit could increase import costs and restrict retail promotions. Ybarra nevertheless expects the UK market to remain broadly supplied, with less consistent availability across sizes and varieties.

Indian exporters could also find opportunities to expand their UK presence. However, India’s main export season runs from spring to summer, limiting its ability to replace missing winter volumes directly.

Kay Bee Exports chief executive Kaushal Khakhar identified retailer and consumer acceptance, alongside the shift from sea-freighted mangoes to air-freighted Indian fruit, as challenges to developing that opportunity.