"Ecuador has strengthened its position as world leader in banana exports, reaching a total of 330.9 million boxes exported up to November 2024; an increase of 1.39% over the same period in 2023. The European Union consolidated as the main destination, accounting for 29.12% of exports, followed by Russia (18.23%) and the Middle East (13.62%). However, some markets such as Russia and the United Kingdom experienced significant drops due to economic and logistical challenges," says José Antonio Hidalgo, representative of the Banana Cluster and executive director of AEBE.
Meanwhile, markets such as the United States and the Southern Cone showed remarkable growth. "The United States increased its purchases by 27.24%, with 7.92 million additional boxes, while the Southern Cone registered an increase of 13.10%, with the demand from Chile and Argentina standing out the most," says Hidalgo.
The AEBE representative highlighted that "Ecuador is experiencing climate change, which is resulting in greater volumes in certain seasons. However, challenges such as insecurity and the aesthetics demanded by European markets continue to exert pressure on producers."
"Ecuador stands out for its commitment to providing a living wage, backed by national laws. This is a key factor to be able to compete in demanding markets such as the European Union," says Antonio Hidalgo. However, he stressed the need for standardization of audits to reduce the administrative overload derived from multiple certifications, which increase costs without them being adequately recognized.
"Ecuadorian bananas should not be perceived as a cheap product. We need campaigns to educate consumers about the true cost of sustainability," says Hidalgo.
Trade expansion in Asia
In 2024, Ecuador signed a trade agreement with China and made progress in its negotiations with South Korea. Also, Japan is emerging as a long-term target market. These treaties seek to diversify the fruit's destinations and consolidate the presence of Ecuadorian bananas in Asia.
At a national level, the Banana Cluster is working with the TEC de Monterrey to strengthen public policies and promote sustainable competitiveness. Likewise, projects such as SafeBanana and biosecurity brigades have been key to containing pests and maintaining product quality.
Innovations and sustainability
AEBE's Banana Statistical Observatory (OEB) played a key role in collecting accurate data for strategic decision-making. Among its most outstanding achievements is the implementation of the SafeBanana project, aimed at the prevention of tropical Fusarium race 4 and other pests, such as moko, in key provinces like El Oro, Guayas, and Los Rios. This program will continue in 2025 with biosecurity brigades to protect plantations.
"Also, we have been promoting the use of advanced technologies, such as aerial spraying and drones, thereby consolidating a modern and sustainable approach to banana production," says Hidalgo.
Challenges overcome and protective measures
Hidalgo says that in 2024, "AEBE successfully tackled the challenges that have arisen with the most representative markets, such as Russia and the EU, through coordinated work between the banana cluster and the authorities."
Another significant step forward was the implementation of the "Secure Farms" protocol, designed to protect producers and workers from the growing insecurity in rural areas. This protocol, presented during the Banana Time 2024 event, has been developed with the support of security experts and industry leaders.
By 2025, AEBE will focus on educational campaigns highlighting the sector's efforts to make the activity more sustainable, from ensuring living wages to fighting food waste. "We want consumers to perceive sustainability as an essential aspect behind the quality of Ecuadorian bananas. Also, participation in international events, such as Fruit Logistica, and an active agenda with supermarkets and European authorities are expected to strengthen the position of Ecuadorian bananas as a global leader," says Hidalgo.
For more information:
José Antonio Hidalgo
AEBE
Tel.: +593 99 952 4959
[email protected]
www.aebe.com.ec