Uniban, the leading exporter of bananas, plantains, and value-added products in Colombia since 1966, and the fifth-largest banana exporter globally, announces a significant milestone with the upcoming launch of Puerto Antioquia in 2025. This cutting-edge port, located in the Urabá region, will enhance export logistics by reducing transit times to Europe, which currently accounts for over 90% of Uniban's exports. The new facility will boost Colombia's export capabilities and reinforce Uniban's commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Competing with major multinational corporations in the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe, Uniban remains a key player in the global banana market. The company is the largest exporter of bananas and plantains in Colombia, generating over 4,800 direct jobs. Through its associated producers — many of whom are shareholders — Uniban supports 11,360 additional jobs across 182 banana farms, which exclusively market their produce through the company. These farms primarily produce conventional bananas in Urabá, Antioquia, and Magdalena, while also cultivating organic bananas in regions such as Magdalena and La Guajira, located on Colombia's northern coast along the Caribbean Sea.
Puerto Antioquia: Strengthening export capabilities to Europe
"The opening of Puerto Antioquia will be a milestone for Uniban and Colombia. This port will not only optimize our logistics but also solidify our commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence," stated Manuel Laborde, CEO of Uniban. "Our goal is to ensure that Colombian agricultural products reach Europe in the best possible condition, further strengthening our presence in this key market." Equipped with advanced cargo handling systems and refrigerated storage facilities, Puerto Antioquia will ensure the efficient transport of products such as bananas, plantains, Hass avocados, and mangoes.
Advancing social responsibility with the Living Wage Initiative
Uniban prioritizes social responsibility through the Living Wage Initiative, ensuring that it benefits over 11,000 workers and their families in Urabá and Magdalena who earn wages well above the Colombian minimum. "Fair compensation and quality of life for our workers are essential to the long-term success of both Uniban and the communities we serve," added Laborde.
Driving shared value: An integrated approach
Uniban's shared value strategy combines economic, social, and environmental goals to foster sustainable development across its operations. The company collaborates with over 2,000 small-scale farmers in regions like Urabá and Magdalena, providing technical support and fair-trade conditions. In 2023, Uniban invested over US$2 million in training programs and infrastructure to enhance productivity and quality.
"Our approach to shared value is about creating positive impacts that extend beyond our business operations. By addressing key challenges like poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, we are building a stronger foundation for both our communities and our business," said Laborde.
Through partnerships with organizations like Fairtrade, Uniban has contributed over US$4.4 million to local development projects, including housing, education, and healthcare, benefiting over 7,000 families.
For more information:
Manuel Laborde
Unibán
Tel: +57 301 518 5355
Email: [email protected]
www.uniban.com