FAO studies reveal that between 2008 and 2015 the cultivated area of organic bananas worldwide increased by 18%, due to a change in the preferences of consumers who demand more food products that are healthy and friendly to the environment. Understanding and meeting the needs of this market niche represents a business opportunity for Ecuador, the main producer of bananas in the world.
Bananas represent an important source of income for several developing countries, contributing significantly to the food security of these nations. International markets demand this fruit in large quantities due to its high nutritional values. According to data from the FAO, it is one of the main fruits consumed worldwide with more than 107 million tons per year. However, in most of the world its production relies intensively in agrochemicals, causing damage to the environment and the health of peasant producers. Organic bananas are an interesting alternative to alleviate these evils. In addition, this product achieves higher prices in the international markets and have a lower impact on the environment and the health of the peasant producers.
Ecuador can take advantage of the existing trade relations it has with countries of the European Union and North America, which together with Japan import approximately 99% of the world's organic banana production (FAO 2017).
Ecuador is among the largest producers of organic bananas with more than 12,000 hectares planted, however producers still have challenges to face. The main countries that buy organic bananas in the world demand that producers have special certifications, which can be expensive and can generate entry barriers mainly for small producers.
The State must intensify public policies aimed at ensuring that small banana producers can meet the requirements to obtain organic certification. Having new commercial agreements is essential so that the country's organic bananas can reach different markets, as Ecuador has a high potential to become the largest producer of organic bananas in the world, which would attract foreign currency that would help the country's development.
Source: eluniverso.com