Pakistani business community, keeping in view the high demand of Pakistani mangoes in the Chinese market, is planning to export up to 3,000 tons of mangoes to China from next year, Roshan Enterprises Chairman Khalid Ejaz Qureshi said on Thursday.“We have received a positive response from China about Pakistani mangoes and as a result, we are planning to export 2,000 to 3,000 tons mangoes to the huge Chinese market from next year,” he stated.He said mango exports will depend on air logistics charges and support of other concerned departments, adding that fares are being negotiated with an airline.Updating on the current status of mango exports, he said that Middle East, Europe, the US and Hong Kong are major destinations being served by Pakistani producers.“Pakistani mangoes have more than 400 varieties and are considered one of the best in the world,” Qureshi claimed, adding that “the most popular commercial varieties are different in colour and sizes and have distinct flavour and taste.”Mangoes are considered the ‘king of fruits’ in Pakistan. They are heavily grown in Punjab and Sindh provinces and are abundantly available in most parts of the country between May and September.Mangoes are also the main input in several food related industries and products including jams, squash, milkshakes and ice creams. The fruit is also dried and canned for sale during the off season while raw mangoes are used for preparing pickles.‘Chaunsa and Sindhri’ are arguably the most popular varieties and stand out amongst mangoes with their golden-yellow colour.Pakistani exporters recently organised a ‘mango show’ in collaboration with the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company at Pakistan Embassy in Beijing.The different varieties of ‘king of fruits’ were showcased at the show to enhance its export to China. The event attracted a large number of people including high ranking Chinese officials, local business community and senior diplomats of the two countries.Published in The Express Tribune, September 1, 2017.Like Business on Facebook , follow @TribuneBiz on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.