Heavy Rains Threaten the 80 Tonnes of Longanes Harvested in Mauritius Annually

Excessive rainfall is threatening the quality and yield of Mauritius’ beloved longan season, sparking concerns that the “legendary sweetness” of the fruit could be diluted this year.

According to data from the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (FAREI), the island produces approximately 80 tonnes of longanes annually.

However, unlike industrial crops like sugarcane or pineapple, the longan is almost exclusively grown in private backyards and family gardens, making the national harvest highly vulnerable to the “capricious” tropical weather.

A Tradition Under Water

While the longan tree is robust, it is notoriously sensitive to moisture during its flowering and maturation phases. Local experts warn that the recent frequent rains can lead to:

• Premature flower drop
• Poor fruit setting
• Watery, less sugary fruit
• Increased risk of fungal diseases

For a fruit often nicknamed “Longane Maurice” as an unofficial mark of superior quality, the loss of its intense sweetness is a significant blow to its cultural reputation.

The Lone Commercial Pioneer

While most of the island’s 80-tonne output comes from scattered trees planted decades ago by grandfathers, one grower is feeling the risk more than most.

Krishna Mdhin Bhageeruth is a rare exception in the Mauritian landscape, managing a structured plantation of approximately 100 trees.

Aiming for a 10-tonne yield—representing over 10% of the nation’s total production—Bhageeruth admits the venture is one of passion rather than guaranteed profit.

“Too much rain can ruin everything,” he noted, highlighting that the fruit lacks the subsidies or insurance safety nets afforded to larger agricultural sectors.

A “Backyard” Economy

The longan has resisted industrialisation in Mauritius for several structural reasons:

1. Irregular yields that depend entirely on climate.
2. A short harvest season and limited shelf life.
3. Cultural perception as a “home fruit” meant for sharing with neighbours rather than mass distribution.

Cultural Resilience

Despite the lack of commercial scale, the fruit remains a staple of Mauritian collective memory.

Sold in small clusters with leaves still attached to prove freshness, it avoids sophisticated packaging or advertising.

As the season progresses, consumers at local markets continue to ask the age-old question: “Li doux?” (Is it sweet?).

While the FAREI expects production to remain stable at 80 tonnes, the ultimate verdict on this year’s “sweet treasure” remains in the hands of the weather.

Source: Defi Media