The Covid pandemic has adversely impacted livelihoods and businesses worldwide. Even the more robust economies have been negatively affected by the tough response measures introduced. The export business sector is among the most affected as most countries witnessed a sharp decline in demand after instituting measures such as movement restrictions.
Avocados are among the many export products that are emerging as winners from this pandemic. One of the effects that the virus has had on people is improving health consciousness, particularly in developed economies as people seek foods that provide immune boosting properties against Covid-10. Of course, the avocado is a good substitute for vegetarians or people without access to meat and dairy products.
This has resulted in increasing demand for avocados, creating huge opportunities for Zimbabwean farmers. The diversified use of avocados in, for example, food and cosmetics is also contributing to the growing demand. Currently, the largest importers of avocados are the Unites States of America (US$2,54 billion), Netherlands (US$1,03 billion), France (US$9.8 million), Spain (US$318 million), Germany (US$371 million) and United Kingdom (US$346 million).
Local farmers can use existing channels to introduce more avocados Into these markets. Some promising markets for Zimbabwean-produced avocados in the European market include Norway, Portugal, Belgium, Poland and Spain.
Source: sundaymail.co.zw