From January to September 2025, Ecuador exported 285.05 million boxes of bananas, a 3.51% increase over the same period in 2024, according to data from Acorbanec's Statistics Coordination Office. The European Union remained the top destination, accounting for 30.9% of exports, followed by Russia (19.7%) and the Middle East (14.96%).
The report highlights a rise in international demand, mainly due to reduced production in Central American countries caused by weather issues and labor disputes, leading to increased purchases of Ecuadorian bananas. This trend was especially noticeable in the US (+5.80%) and EU (+6.96%) markets.
The most significant increases in destinations were in China (+19.77%), Turkey (+31.42%), Russia (+12.25%), Libya (+13.86%), Sweden (+15.77%), Argentina (+13.97%), and Saudi Arabia (+8.76%). Conversely, there were decreases in Africa (-66.58%), Central Asia (-14.57%), and the UK (-15.47%).
Despite a 1.87% decrease in sheathings and harvests compared to the previous year, the higher yield per plant helped maintain export volume. Additionally, new hectares sown and replanted helped keep supply steady during the early months of the year.
By product type, 83.03% of exports consisted of 22XU boxes, 11.26% of 208 boxes, and 4.14% of organic bananas. The baby banana segment rose by 43.36%, and red bananas increased by 119%, although they still represent a small volume.
Ecuadorian banana exports primarily left from Guayaquil (50.03%), Posorja (28.24%), and Puerto Bolivar (21.73%). 86% of shipments were shipped in containers, and 14% were transported in bulk on refrigerated vessels.
UBESA (Dole) was the leading exporter, with a 13.29% market share, followed by Reybanpac at 7.60%, and Comersur at 5.52%. In terms of brands, Dole led exports with 15.27%, followed by Chiquita at 4.90% and Global Village at 4.52%.
Finally, St. Petersburg (Russia) was the primary port of destination, accounting for 19.69% of total exports, followed by San Diego (USA) and Mersin (Turkey). These figures underscore Ecuador's position as a leading global banana exporter, maintaining a stable supply and expanding its presence in emerging markets across Asia and the Middle East.
For more information:
www.acorbanec.com
