Maens Fruits, a Colombian family business with more than 15 years of experience in fruit cultivation, is ready to make the leap to the international market. Specializing in the production of gulupa (Passiflora edulis), the company has decided to start exporting after years of perfecting its cultivation and certification processes.
Based in Pasca, in the Cundinamarca department, Maens Fruits has worked hard to establish itself as a reliable producer of gulupa. With approximately 50,000 plants on 45 hectares spread out over several plots, the company has reached a production level that allows them to supply a weekly container of the fruit. However, general manager María Camila Vanegas Velasco points out that the logistical costs and initial investment are considerable. "We have the capacity to produce one container, but the problem is the logistical costs," she says, explaining that they plan to start with air shipments and then gradually move on to full containers.
Quality is essential for Maens Fruits. The crops have certifications such as GlobalG.A.P. and GRASP (not yet as a company), and they comply with the standards required by the ICA in Colombia. These certifications guarantee that their crops are grown with responsible and sustainable agricultural practices, which is crucial for the European market, which is their main export target.
The gulupa, a tropical fruit with an exotic flavour, has seen significant growth in the demand in recent years, not only in Colombia, but also abroad. Although it is still a relatively new product in international markets, it has gained some ground thanks to its versatility and nutritional properties. According to Vanegas, "gulupa has gradually become a more relevant export product for Colombia, which was already known for its Hass avocado and uchuva."
One of the main challenges ahead for Maens Fruits is the fluctuating climatic conditions, which have caused alterations in the production cycles. "We usually have four or five peaks a year, but due to climate change, we haven't had any interruptions in the production," says Vanegas. Despite these challenges, the company remains committed to expansion and expects gulupa exports to grow significantly in the coming years.
Maens Fruits is also strongly committed to the local community, especially women. "We work a lot with mothers who are heads of families and provide them employment at the plots," says Vanegas, highlighting the positive impact the company has had on the region's economy.
For more information:
Maens Fruits
Pasca, Colombia
María Camila Vanegas Velasco
Tel.: +57 3125435560 / +57 3045781532
[email protected]
www.maensfruits.com