Though mango season is well underway, far less of the fruit will be bound for the lucrative export market than usual, with Pakistan's agriculturally dependent economy caught in the crosshairs of the Middle East crisis that its government has helped mediate.
An initial deal between the warring sides announced by Pakistan this week has come too late for this mango season, which began in June in southern Sindh Province.
Mango traders told AFP they expect export sales to fall at least 30% this year due to dampened demand in key markets, including the Gulf, and soaring shipping costs.
Adding to the financial pain, local households struggling with a spike in inflation emanating from the regional crisis are holding off on buying the fruit, depressing domestic sales.
In the mango-growing heartland of Tando Allahyar, Mohammad Shakeel manages orchards that grow the golden-yellow Sindhri variety, named after the province where it flourishes and famous for its rich flavor and juicy pulp.
