Last week, the American president, Donald Trump, threatened to close that country's border with Mexico. He says he will do this if that country does not stop the flow of immigrants to the United States. Although these are merely speculations, they have had a significant impact on the avocado market.
Nature's Pride's Ready to Eat Sourcing Manager, Tom Verbakel, is closely following these developments. "We are getting information from our Mexican partner and via reports. We are also regularly discussing this with the Peruvians."
"Prices are now increasing at a record pace. This is not only due to Trump's announcement. It is also because of the current market situation there. There are major promotions happening at retailers too," says Tom. Asked whether he sees the closing of the market as a real scenario, he answers, "As traders, we should not speculate over the speculations of others, in this case, Trump. If this actually happens, it will, of course, affect the market."
"Not only avocados will be affected. There will be an enormous demand from the United States for Peruvian fruit. The Mexicans will also go looking for sales channels in Europe. As importers, we are less concerned. Our volumes are fixed. This is because our partnerships are focused on the long term," concludes Tom.
For more information:
Tom Verbakel
Nature's Pride
Tel: +31 (0) 174 219 155
tom.verbakel@naturespride.nl
www.naturespride.nl