PHNOM PENH: A relatively new variety of mango, the Taiwanese mango, is gaining popularity and fetching high prices in the markets of Battambang province.
Previously unfamiliar to many Cambodian farmers and not widely cultivated, this mango is now being increasingly grown in family orchards across the province due to its large fruit size and versatility – it can be enjoyed both when mature and ripe. Its attractive market value is also a significant factor driving its expansion.
Ms. Morn Soriya, a resident of Kanteu commune in Banan district, Battambang province, owns a plantation situated along the western bank of the Sangker River. She explained that her land’s location, bordering a road and with the river at its rear, provides easy access to water for irrigation. Ms. Soriya decided to plant several Taiwanese mango trees after hearing about their large, appealing fruits and delicious taste. After three years, her trees began to flower and bear fruits for the first time, with each mango exhibiting an impressive size.
She further elaborated that the mature mangoes could be eaten with their sweet and sour flavor and were ready for sale. However, due to the appealing appearance of the first harvest, she kept some fruits on the trees to admire. As villagers and fruit traders persistently requested to share or buy the mangoes for consumption and resale, she began selling them steadily.
Ms. Soriya emphasised the initial selling price ranged from 4,000 to 6,000 Riel (roughly US$1 to US$1.5) per kilogramme. Given that each fruit weighs between one and one and a half kilogramme, this meant she could earn between 4,000 and 6,000 Riel per mango.
Each harvest generated an income starting from 400,000 Riel. Resellers, she noted, could sell them at an even higher price. She highlighted the significant difference in value compared to the Keo Romeat mango variety.
Currently, the Taiwanese mango is in high demand among consumers due to its distinct and delicious taste. Recognising the favourable market, Ms. Soriya is continuing to propagate more seedlings to plant on her remaining land. Additionally, villagers along the riverbank are also requesting to cultivate this promising variety themselves.