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Carlos Londoño, of Jardín Exotics:

Colombian avocados redirected to the U.S. due to oversupply in Europe

2024 has been a challenging year for the Colombian avocado sector. "During the main season, in which we expected to focus solely on the European market, we started having problems around week 42 due to the fruit's oversupply in Europe. Prices started to fall sharply and, at the same time, the United States showed signs of being able to absorb a larger volume at increasingly competitive prices, so some volumes were redirected, with 50% of shipments going to the European market and the other 50% to the U.S. market," says Carlos Andrés Londoño, executive director of Jardín Exotics.

Access to international markets doesn't depend only on the demand, but also on logistical capacity. According to Londoño, "in recent months, problems at the ports have worsened. Scheduled cargoes have been left at the port because of vessels being unable to leave. This increases costs and generates uncertainty in the supply chain."

Although Colombia has improved its productivity and is obtaining more tons per hectare, inputs and logistics still represent a significant financial burden.

"The weather has been an ally in the 2024 production, allowing producers to maintain fruit quality and aim for 20 to 25% growth in 2025. We closed this year with 600 containers, but we expect to reach between 800 and 850 next year," says Londoño. However, the manager acknowledges that achieving this goal will only be possible with the right market and weather conditions and will also depend on the level of competition from other producing countries, such as Peru and Mexico.

Globally, the avocado industry is facing new demands. "Conscious consumption and sustainability of origin are increasingly important topics. Food safety and the management of chemical residues are critical factors in the marketing of the fruit, forcing Colombian producers to invest more in certifications and sustainable practices," says Londoño.

Lastly, Londoño stresses the importance of commercial stability as a strategy to strengthen Colombia's position in international markets. "Being able to guarantee stability in the supply, complying with programs, and working with realistic expectations have given us good results."

In addition to avocados, Jardín Exotics has diversified its range with the export of exotic fruits, such as passion fruit. Today, this product is mainly shipped to the European market, with a special focus on Germany. However, growth opportunities are subject to international phytosanitary regulations, as Colombia is still negotiating with the United States for the opening of that market to its passion fruit.

"Passion fruit exports are limited and the market is highly sensitive to supply levels; therefore, growth in this segment is moderate and strategic. A 3% to 4% increase is planned in 2025, which should ensure profitability is maintained," says Londoño.


For more information:
Carlos Londoño
Jardín Exotics SAS
Calle 2#20-50. Edificio Q Office. Oficina 907
Colombia
Tel.: +57 321 2544099
info@jardinexotics.com.co
www.jardinexotics.com.co