Ecuadorian bananas have had a good start this year, favoured also by the problems in Costa Rica, Guatemala and the Philippines.
More information:
Eduardo Ledesma
AEBE
[email protected]
"So far, we continue to have greater export volumes than at the same time last year, growing by between 4% and 5%. Hopefully, the reduction in exports to Russia will stop affecting us. During the months of May, June and July, consumption usually drops in this market, but if, with some support, costs and expenses can be reduced, we are very likely to manage the situation in a favourable manner for our country," explains Eduardo Ledesma, executive director of the Association of Banana Exporters of Ecuador (AEBE).
The AEBE is working in partnership with PRO ECUADOR to develop marketing and communication strategies for Ecuadorian bananas in the Russian market.
"We want to promote consumption during marathons, sports activities and in summer camps for children, in order to alleviate the impact of a possible drop in consumption," states Eduardo.
According to reports from AEBE, the drop in consumption in Russia could amount to around 12 million boxes in 2015; 17% less than the 70 million exported in 2014.
Besides, the recent devaluation of the U.S. Dollar against the Rouble would ease the crisis currently affecting the country.
The safeguards
"At the moment, the safeguards are under review; they are being eliminated for some items because they have occasionally affected export production activities and this is counterproductive," affirms Eduardo.
The Chilean fruit industry recently expressed its opposition to these measures introduced by the Ecuadorian Government and they are expected to take action against them.
"This worries me, because Chile could take action in retaliation and much of our fruit goes to that market. But Argentina concerns me even more, since I have recently been informed that importers will have less Government-authorised foreign currency available for imports, and this could significantly reduce their purchases. The AEBE will ask the Ecuadorian Minister for the Coordination of Production, Employment and Competitiveness, Nathalie Cely, to communicate with the Government of Mrs Kirchner to remedy this situation," concludes Eduardo.
More information:
Eduardo Ledesma
AEBE
[email protected]
