Brazilian papayas are currently plentiful, with high demands. However, airfreight capacity shortages are currently making its import enormously costly. "Brazilian exporters are not getting all the space they want. Papaya airfreight has also become €0,80 to €0,90 more expensive per kg. That makes it less attractive for some clients," says Enmanuel van Voorthuizen, Yex's Product Manager.
Yex is still getting papayas by air in the Netherlands. "But we are now getting ourselves orientated to bring them in by boat. I expect the market situation will provide space for this. From a storage life perspective, it is a challenge to import papayas via sea freight. Airfreight is usually the best option. But these are unusual circumstances. That is why we are trying hard to find logistical solutions without compromising quality."
According to this importer, papaya consumption is experiencing a growth spurt. "The demand has not decreased in Europe either. Sales are just temporarily lower due to sky-high prices. I am sure sales would continue normally otherwise. Production countries are largely focused on the North American market. These are countries like Mexico and Costa Rica. But I think there are chances for them on the European market too."
"Brazil is currently the main supplier for the European market. Golden and Formosa are the best-known varieties. Spain also grows this product. They, however, have good local demand. Their papayas are seen hardly anywhere else," says Van Voorthuizen.
"We usually import from Thailand too. But, there prices have leaped to €7,50/kg and could even climb to €10/kg. A box weight eight kilograms, so importing then becomes very pricey."
Yex sells most of its papayas to clients in Southern and Northwestern Europe. "They are ordering as usual. Other importers have stopped due to the high prices. We have, however, carried on as normal. That shows the demand for this product," concludes Enmanuel.
For more information:
Enmanuel van Voorthuizen
Yex
Tel: +31 (0) 174 214 551
Email: e.vanvoorthuizen@yex.nl
Website: www.yex.nl