Avocados continue to grow in the global market, says Elena Rogojnikova from the Dutch company The Greenery. "So far, the 2023/2024 season has been challenging for avocado importers to meet the ever-increasing demand for this superfood and ensure sufficient supply for their customers," she says.
"Last year's poor weather conditions affected the harvest in Colombia, one of the main Hass avocado producers for the European market. The season ended earlier than expected. This year should bring significantly higher volumes. According to some producers, that will be as much as around 50% more than last year. Production in Peru is, however, expected to decrease by about 25%, with more smaller sizes and a slight shortage of larger ones."
Impact of the Red Sea crisis on African avocados
"The crisis in the Red Sea area has negatively impacted African avocados, especially from Kenya and Tanzania. They're facing significantly longer transit times, which can affect their quality. For example, travel takes five weeks longer for avocados from Kenya, making Europe a less attractive market for those and Tanzanian avocado producers," Elena explains.
"In late 2023, Israel became embroiled in the Gaza crisis. That war means fewer workers are available for packing plants, slightly negatively affecting the volumes. Plus, 14 days of rain in Israel led to limited availability in February, which, combined with higher demand in Europe, has driven up prices. That and the limited volumes from Peru have boosted demand for Israeli avocados. Also, the quality of those avocados, both Greenskins and Hass, was excellent this season, which increased demand, too."
First South African avocados harvested and packed this week
"The Israeli season will last until late March. In week 13, the South African season will follow, traditionally starting with Maluma Hass and Fuerte. Maluma Hass harvesting starts in week 10. The humid weather delayed dry matter content. As did the larger-than-initially-expected harvest. Then, the correct level is reached slower than with the smaller harvest. As for the first Fuerte avocados, they're being harvested and packed this week. South African producers are expecting a good season, volume and quality-wise," Elena concludes.
For more information:
Elena Rogojnikova
The Greenery
Mob.: +31 (0) 652 647 600
e.rogojnikova@thegreenery.com