Produce Art has started shipping mangoes into America. United States and Managing Director Rohan Bicknell recognizes the importance of this market even though it’s still increasing, with very little volume currently being delivered.

“It’s among the most difficult market that Australia is able to access, yet it’s a market that we require,” he said. “We are restricted in the markets that we are able to send to as it’s difficult to do with a lot of hoops to go through. However, it’s a market which can yield a huge reward back to the farmer. This is a fruit that could have potential for a bright outlook for Australian mangoes.”

Mr. Bicknell states that the mangoes are grown in the west coast prior to it is shipped out to different parts of the nation, with the sole exception of Florida and, while the USA receives mangoes from different regions of the globe, including South America, the Australian mangoes are at the top portion of the marketplace.

“A large portion of people in the Asian communities push this the most, because they are aware of the amazing Australian R2E2’s are” the actor stated. “They have a large supply of mangoes from South America and Central America but here, they’re paying astronomical costs to buy Aussie mangoes. They must pay more because there is a lot of treatment, and it is a premium package and the airfreight service to the United States is more expensive than in other nations. It is best to wait until the fruit is fully mature before sending it to the US, which is why we urge customers to buy.”

Other Australian exporters also send to the US at present, Produce Art is sending around two PMC pallets per week. This equals 10 tons, but it would be ideal to increase the amount if they can find other growers who are willing to participate in this trade.

“Los Angeles is an important transport hub that handles a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables, which is why it’s set up to supply all over the nation,” Mr Bicknell said. “We typically finish by the final day of December. We’d like to extend our stay longer so that we can set a goal for Chinese New Year, but it’s been a challenge to convince growers because of the formalities they have to meet in order in order to be approved to be able to sell on market entry into the American markets.”

In terms of production, mango season does throw many challenges to the business, however Mr Bicknell states that it’s essential to offer a beautiful and top-quality product for the market.

“You can get a lot of fruit from Australia’s Northern Territory, and they are facing a number of issues, including transportation and labor,” he said. “Then when fruit is delivered in late, you have problems with the weather as well. Therefore, the fruit could occasionally be inconsistent, which can be a problem and is too risky for someone like me. To cater to those in the US marketplace, we prefer to begin with Queensland’s Bowen region and then continues until we feel the fruit lacks enough color or isn’t more a top quality product.”

Regarding R2E2 being the most popular variety that people prefer, Bicknell states: “Other people have done various other kinds of designs, but I’m not convinced that the results have been as good. R2E2 is the most popular preference for people who purchase from overseas because even with the treatment process and the long journey, it’s the most beautiful in its durability and natural aesthetics. Also, we’ve been working with the growers who are careful about the right maturation of the R2E2s to ensure that our customers have the finest dining experience possible and come back to get even more! The R2E2 mango is a fruit that has lost the popularity of its flavor over the last few years, due to being harvested too late before it has reached its full flavor potential. It’s a shame to observe as if taken at the right time it’s a delicious taste!”

More information is available here:

Rohan Bicknell

Create Art

Phone: +61 409 907 626

[email protected]

www.produceart.com.au