It has been a challenging season for Mexican avocados this year. High temperatures and water shortages have led to lower yields, making it difficult to source quality produce. Rodolfo Meza of Aztec Fruits, a Mexican exporter with a sales office in Leuven, explains, "Due to the limited volumes, many Mexican growers are opting to export to the U.S. instead of Europe. This prompted us to pivot to Guatemalan avocados, and so far, it's going very well."
Rodolfo notes that this situation is not new. "The Mexican harvest was poor, resulting in very low yields. Naturally, prices skyrocketed, and the U.S. market is willing to pay significantly more than Europe," he explains. "This leaves little product available for Europe. About two and a half years ago, we began discussions with Guatemalan grower Juan Carlos Pop, and together, we initiated a project to export his avocados to Europe. After years of securing certifications and setting up logistics, we've launched our first full-scale export season this year."
Rodolfo is pleased with how things are progressing. "Volumes are still relatively small, but the quality is excellent, and prices are favorable. The Guatemalan season mirrors Mexico's, running from August to January, and we're maintaining regular shipments. Our customers have responded positively and are eager to continue sourcing Guatemalan avocados."
While the anticipated volumes weren't fully realized this year, Rodolfo remains optimistic. "We've been able to supply one key customer consistently and a second customer to a limited extent. This season, we're laying a solid foundation and finding that Guatemalan avocados can be a valuable addition to our product range. While we can't compete with countries like Colombia or Kenya in terms of volume, we excel in flavor. I see significant potential in the coming years."
U.S. market entry for Guatemalan avocados
However, recent news has dampened the optimism. Starting next year, Guatemalan avocados will gain access to the U.S. market. "That was a bit of a shock," Rodolfo admits. "Like in Mexico, many growers will likely focus on the U.S. market due to higher prices. This complicates our plans to build on the strong reception in Europe. That said, we're not giving up. Even in years of low production, we'll need to balance European demand with U.S. opportunities, just as we do with Mexican avocados."
Aztec Fruits is determined to maintain its European programs. "It took significant effort to establish ourselves in the market, and we're committed to maintaining continuity. However, we'll have to adapt to the growing demand from the U.S.," Rodolfo adds. "Next year will be telling. Guatemala's volumes are expected to grow, and we're hopeful for a better Mexican season. This year was tough, but there was enough water—it just came too late. Next year could be different. I've already spoken to our Mexican partner, who is confident about supplying us again."
Looking ahead to the Ataulfo mango season
From January, Aztec Fruits will shift its focus to mangoes. "This season looks promising," Rodolfo says. "Last year was challenging, but this year, production is up, and quality is excellent. Our main variety is the Ataulfo mango, which sets us apart. It's a premium product with a great shelf life and a unique flavor that's highly appreciated. Over the past five years, we've grown from shipping a single pallet to handling substantial volumes, and we expect that growth to continue."
For more information:
Rodolfo Meza
Aztec Fruits
Interleuvenlaan 62,
3001 Hevrelee, Belgium
Tel: +32 456 18 4982
[email protected]
www.aztecfruits.com