The export of fruit and vegetables to the Caribbean is facing major challenges, such as uncertainty in sea freight and price fluctuations. A major logistical issue is that shipping companies often cancel shipments at the last minute, which makes trade unstable. Some companies have chosen to send mixed containers to the Caribbean islands with products such as avocado, tomato, bell pepper, ginger, and pineapple, adapting to the needs of buyers in the region.
"We always try to ensure that the product reaches the customer in the best condition," stated Melina Marcelino and Juan Peña, representatives of Fruggies.
"It's not just about selling, but also about controlling the entire operational chain from the Dominican Republic." Fruggies sends 9 to 11 containers per week to Trinidad and Tobago and Curacao but plans to export 15 containers per week in the short term.
The main competitors in the Caribbean export market are Costa Rica, the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, and Brazil, which makes it a challenge for Dominican exporters looking to maintain their market share.
"Prices can fluctuate from week to week depending on supply and demand," they said. An example of this is the bell pepper, whose price increased in December due to reduced production in the US, forcing Fruggies to maintain its supply to clients even without a profit margin. "We are in negotiations to start exporting to the United States, specifically to Florida and the East Coast," the managers stated. Europe is also on the table, but the longer transit times require careful planning. Air freight is being considered for products that require fast delivery.
"The local market demand, driven by the tourism boom in destinations like Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, and Samaná, has created a balance between exports and domestic consumption. Product availability remains stable but prices can rise significantly during shortages, reflecting high demand in both domestic and international markets," they stated.
"Consumers in the Caribbean have a marked preference for conventional products rather than organic products, due to their lower cost. Unlike in Europe, where sustainability and organic certification are growing trends, in the Caribbean, the priority is still price and product availability. While the phytosanitary processes of conventional products guarantee adequate quality standards, the lack of interest in organic products remains. Furthermore, consumers in the region are adapting to market volatility, accepting fluctuations in supply and demand, but with a clear preference for price and supply stability," they stated.
The Caribbean market does not currently require certifications, but the company is evaluating obtaining the Global GAP certification to strengthen its competitiveness in more regulated markets. "Although we work with conventional products, Global GAP would be a key certification to guarantee international quality standards," they stated.
For more information:
Melina Marcelino and Juan Peña
Fruggies
Dominican Republic
Tel: +1 829 638 0090/ +1 829 637 2617
Email: melina@fruggies.com.do
Email: juan@fruggies.com.do
www.fruggies.com.do