Ecuadorian banana exports have increased for the third consecutive month. Up until November, the country has exported 4.53 million additional boxes, which translates into a 1.39% increase over the same period in 2023. The European Union continues to be the main destination market for this fruit.
According to the Association of Banana Exporters of Ecuador (AEBE), the country exported 330.90 million boxes up to November, exceeding last year's figures despite the logistical and climatic challenges they have faced. This growth has been observed in the EU and other important regions such as the United States and Asia, demonstrating the resilience of the Ecuadorian banana sector.
Demand in markets such as Russia and the Middle East has decreased, but the increase in shipments to other areas has compensated for this drop. Growth in the EU (3.20%), the United States (27.24%), the Southern Cone (13.04%), Eastern Europe (30.57%) and EFTA Europe (31.02%) stands out. In particular, exports to the EU increased by 2.99 million boxes towards the end of the 2023 summer season.
Purchases from Malta, France, Italy, and Germany have increased significantly. Exports to Asia have increased by 0.99 million boxes, while shipments to Russia decreased compared to the previous year.
The AEBE notes that logistical difficulties, including congestion on global routes and high demand for containers, have limited export performance.
AEBE notes that logistical difficulties, including congestion on global routes and high demand for containers, have limited export performance. In addition, competition with Chile's agricultural products in the US market and low temperatures in Ecuador affected the supply of bananas for export in November. Nevertheless, the sector has managed to effectively place its limited supply in key markets.
Source: eluniverso.com