The rapid supply chain appraisal approach: A case study of Pakistan mangoes to the United Kingdom
Pakistan is the third largest exporter of mangoes in the world. However, the export market returns for Pakistan mangoes are among the lowest because of their low quality in terms of disease and physical damage, poor consistency and poor shelf life. The UK market is the second largest export market for Pakistan mangoes after the UAE. This paper reports on the limitations in current supply chain practices identified through a rapid supply chain appraisal of the UK mango chain. Under an Australian government aid initiative, considerable investments in improving postharvest practices, market feedback and capacity building have been made, which have resulted in improved product appearance and fruit quality. Unfortunately, there has been no appreciable improvement in market prices or commitment from the exporters involved. The reasons behind this include the large number of exporters, the costs associated in changing the current system, and the inability to quantify the benefits arising from the implementation of 'best practice'