Coliman strengthening organic banana production

In spite of severe weather events that harshly impacted production during the first half of 2016, Coliman Group is marking its 53rd anniversary celebration and strengthening its organic banana production.

After Hurricane Patricia hit the region of Colima in October of last year, a large number of hectares of banana were affected in the area, causing a hugely negative impact on the volume and yield of fruit during the months of November to February. Being aware of this situation, Coliman's markets were faced with reduced availability and increased tolerance to different packaging standards than they are normally accustomed to.

In March, the group finally achieved recovery in the area and now have better fruit development/production to meet the adequate volumes and enhanced standards required by their export programs. 

Despite the complicated situation in recent weeks, the state of Colima remains one of the best options for the supply of organic bananas, as its climate offers favorable conditions for cultivation with higher quality, starting with low precipitation levels compared with the growing regions of Tabasco and Chiapas, as well as other countries in Central America.

Coliman is determined to take advantage of Mexico's geopolitical location to emulate the success that producers in countries like Peru have had in exporting organic bananas. The company owns plantations in the state of Colima, Mexico.

For Coliman, entering the organic market has been a long process; Coliman started a first stage with 20% of their acreage devoted to new projects. They have continued expanding and today they have reached 50% of their total production. 

"One of the main challenges for organic growers is to ensure proper and strict management of agricultural practices. One of the most crucial aspects is field management" 

The organic technology Coliman uses decreases soil contamination and allows regeneration of the microbial flora, resulting in a positive environmental impact of soil conservation, protection of wildlife and water use efficiency through adequate irrigation systems for organic production. Their technology includes planning and monitoring for decision-making in different areas such as phytosanitary controls and health of soil, supplemented by seeds from their organic farms certified for the production of seedlings, ensuring that they maintain the genetic integrity of the mother plants selected. 

Coliman’s plan in relation to organic trade is to export in a similar proportion to the United States and Europe and later venture into Asia.

Coliman Group is the only organic banana producer that is Fair-trade certified in Mexico.

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