The 2025 Ecuadorian plantain season has been very unusual. Prices are uncommonly high and there is less supply. Climate conditions and production changes are affecting the availability of the product, causing unrest in the sector.
"Prices at this time of the year, normally range from $12 to $13 per box. Now, they stand between $17 and $19," stated Camilo J. Gomez, Cimexport representative. This price increase affects market dynamics. Buyers do not want to pay such high prices, which leads to cancellations and a drop in consumption.
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The main issue is the limited availability of plantains. "Production has decreased because there's been too much rainfall and because many producers switched to other crops due to last year's low prices," Camilo stated.
Despite these difficulties, Cimexport continues to grow in the European market. "Half of what we export goes to the United States and the other half to Europe, but we are seeing steady growth in markets like Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands," Camilo stated. In these countries, plantain has gone from being a niche product to a stable consumption option.
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"We have made a significant investment in a new logistics center with cold rooms, packing lines, and warehouses to better store and dispatch the fruit," Camilo stressed. In addition, the company strengthened its fertilization and producer training programs to ensure the quality and stability of the supply.
The global plantain market is also struggling with logistical and competitive issues. "Freight to North America remains high. In Europe, it's been better regulated, making it easier to market the product there," Camilo stated. At the same time, the plantain sector lacks technological innovations. Compared to regular banana cultivation, it lacks infrastructure and quality control.
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"We don't expect an export boom, but we believe the niche markets will continue to get stronger. To ensure growth, the sector must invest in technological progress, more efficient logistics, and have a more competitive pricing plan," Camilo said. The tactic will be to maintain quality and production efficiency, guaranteeing a product that meets the expectations of international consumers.
© Cimexport For more information:Camilo J. Gómez
Cimexport
Ecuador
Tel: +593 9 9961 9296
Email: cjgomez@cimexportgroup.com
www.cimexportinternational.com