Ecuadorian bananas remain one of the country's export mainstays, with a market characterized by complex challenges and key opportunities for the future. The Cavendish variety, grown all year round, accounts for the bulk of exports to destinations such as the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and the Southern Cone.
The last two years have been particularly difficult for Ecuadorian grower-exporters, who are dealing with high input costs and spot prices that exceed the values agreed in international contracts. According to Lorena Quisilema, Operations Manager at Andradecomex, "Ecuador does not have its own currency, which makes it unattractive compared to other banana producing countries, and the high operational, production and logistical costs result in difficulties in closing negotiations with potential clients."
Moreover, pests such as TR4 and the MOKO bacterium represent persistent threats. To tackle them, producers have implemented strict on-farm biosecurity protocols, a crucial measure to ensure product quality and safety.
Despite the difficulties, the sector shows signs of resilience and ambition. Andradecomex, which started exporting in 2024, is currently shipping between 10,000 and 20,000 boxes of bananas per week, with plans to increase this volume to 30,000 to 40,000 boxes in the coming years. With this growth, the company seeks to position Ecuadorian bananas in the global market, highlighting their traceability and high-quality standards that have earned them international certifications.
Climate change has also taken a toll on the productivity of the farms and reduced the projected harvests; however, constant investment and the proper use of good agricultural practices seek to mitigate this while also ensuring sustainability and boosting production.
Striving to diversify, the company is also betting on exotic products such as pineapple and pitaya. Although the market for the latter has been affected by overproduction and low prices, there is optimism in its growth potential.
Bananas, however, remain in the spotlight. "Our goal is to position our brand worldwide and be known for our quality and good agricultural practices," says Quisilema. This approach seeks not only to ensure the sector's growth but also to have a positive impact on the economy of the country's agricultural communities.
For more information:
Lorena Quisilema
Andradecomex S.A
Tel.: +593 93 932 6028
[email protected]
www.miguicho.com