Despite its accelerated growth in the international market, the Colombian Hass avocado faces multiple challenges. "The real challenge is producing more while ensuring quality and responding to changing market standards. Currently, there are approximately 55,000 hectares of Hass avocado planted in Colombia, 38,000 of which are in production. This growth allows us to meet demand," stated Katheryn Mejía, president of Corpohass.
One of the biggest obstacles is the country's logistics infrastructure. "Taking the crops to the ports can take up to 24 hours longer than normal, which increases costs and reduces export efficiency. We hope that the entry into operation of Puerto Antioquia will help reduce these times, optimizing the supply chain, "Mejía said.
Another crucial factor is the diversity of the fruit. "Colombia produces avocados in 16 departments, with different climatic conditions and altitudes, which generates differences in the ripening and consistency of the product. We have been working with importers so that they understand how to handle Colombian fruit," she added.
Moreover, compliance with environmental and phytosanitary regulations has given the sector a competitive advantage. "Colombia requires 30% of the land purchased for crops to be set aside for environmental conservation, allowing ecological corridors to be created. This increases the possibility of carrying out integrated pest and disease management and helps ensure the sector's sustainability. Producers must comply with strict certification standards to access markets such as Europe, and Colombian regulations prepare them for this," Mejía stated.
"Avocado consumption continues to grow as the fruit gains popularity due to its nutritional benefits and versatility in the kitchen. In the United States, per capita consumption is approximately 4 kg per year, while in Europe it is still less than 1.5 kg. In contrast, Chile leads with a consumption of 9 kg per year. Increasing global consumption is key to sustaining the sector's expansion," Mejía stressed.
"The avocado has been recently included in regulations as a healthy food after a 10-year study in the United States recognized its high nutritional value. This reinforces its positioning in the market and the growing trend among consumers for nutritious and functional options," she said.
"Europe is the main destination for Colombian avocado, accounting for 75% of the total exported. Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Belgium are the main buyers in this region. The United States ranks second, with a 24% share," Mejía said.
"Colombia competes in the global avocado market with Mexico, Peru, Spain, South Africa, Israel, and Kenya. Mexico leads the market due to its high production and proximity to the United States, while Peru has grown thanks to its logistical efficiency and competitive costs. Despite this competition, Colombian avocados stand out for their creamy texture and high oil content, which gives them a milder flavor. In addition, having the capacity to produce during the 52 weeks of the year allows us to maintain a constant supply in international markets," she said.
Recent protectionist measures pushed by Donald Trump's administration have raised concerns in the sector. "If the tariffs are implemented, costs would increase, and demand for Hass avocado in that market could decrease, forcing all origins to redirect volumes to other destinations. This still hasn't impacted Colombia directly, but there is a risk that future policies could affect trade dynamics with North America, which underlines the importance of diversifying markets and increasing consumption worldwide," Mejía stressed.
"Our commitment as a country continues to lead sustainability in Hass avocado production, improving efficiency in the logistics chain, and optimizing production processes to improve quality. We're sure that doing this will allow us to further consolidate our product in the global market," Mejía concluded.
For more information:
Katheryn Mejía
Corpohass
Medellín, Colombia
Tel: +57 324 5941 788
Email: comunicaciones@corpohass.com
www.corpohass.com