Colombia's banana industry is ending the 2024 season on a positive note, according to the Association of Banana Producers of Colombia (Augura), which represents 70% of the export banana hectares in the country. "However, the year also presented significant challenges that demanded resilience and adaptability from producers and companies alike," says Dr. Emerson Aguirre Medina, president of the association.
He says in terms of achievements, Colombian banana exports have demonstrated consistent growth, reaching record levels in key markets such as the United States and Europe. "This outcome is the result of the ongoing efforts of Augura and the dedication of producers to position the fruit, defend the interests of the sector, and strengthen existing markets. Furthermore, producers have consistently invested in quality, innovation, and sustainability in production processes. Colombia's banana sector is a global model, that has influenced consumer preferences and importers' demands, leading to additional investment by small, medium, and large producers to meet the mandatory requirements of certifying entities and guarantee entry into different markets."
Banana industry faced many challenges in 2024
Aguirre Medina says the sector has faced a number of challenges. "Production costs have increased significantly, primarily due to elevated input and logistics expenses. Furthermore, the fight against the Fusarium Race 4 tropical fungus and climate change has directly impacted plantation productivity, resulting in extreme weather events that have had a detrimental impact on the harvest. In light of these challenges, Augura is intensifying its efforts to ensure the implementation of public policies that promote inter-institutional investment in infrastructure and technology. The goal is to enhance competitiveness and effectively address these challenges."
Another significant challenge is the volatility of international banana prices, which requires ongoing adaptation to meet the demands of the global market. "In response to this challenge, Augura has developed market diversification strategies and promoted Colombian bananas as a superior quality product with the ability to compete internationally."
Better banana prices needed to pay fair wages
"By 2025, we anticipate significant opportunities due to the implementation of the due diligence directive, which we have been developing for 30 years. Ensuring labour sustainability is a core objective for our agribusiness. We are committed to establishing a living wage that will set a new standard for fair labour practices globally. This directive offers us a valuable opportunity to establish ourselves as a leading agricultural force and for the market to recognize our commitment. Asobancol will continue to promote sustainability and to consolidate Colombian bananas as a global benchmark in quality and competitiveness," concludes Aguirre Medina.
For more information:
Dr. Emerson Aguirre Medina
Association of Colombian Banana Growers
Tel.: +57 315 356 5815
[email protected]
www.augura.com.co