In 2023, Guatemala solidified its position as the top exporter of melons to the United States, achieving a record export value of 280 million dollars. This accomplishment increased Guatemala's share of the US melon import market to 54.7%, up from 52.8% in the previous year. The country's market share had previously peaked at 52.8% in both 2016 and 2022, as per the US Department of Commerce data.
These countries were the main foreign suppliers of melons to the US market in 2023:
- Guatemala: $280 million (+42 percent)
- Mexico: $117 million (+37 percent)
- Honduras: 100 million (+33 percent)
- Costa Rica: 11 million (-12 percent)
US imports of fresh melons witnessed a significant increase of 37% in 2023, reaching a total of 512 million dollars. This growth follows a 7% increase in 2021 and an 8% increase in 2022, marking a robust recovery from a 17% decline experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The introduction of melons to America traces back to European colonization in the 15th and 16th centuries, initially cultivated in Latin America's warm climates. Over time, the fruit spread across the continent, adapting to various climates. Today, Latin America, with countries like Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Guatemala, leads in melon production and plays a significant role in the global trade of this fruit.
Source: opportimes.com