According to data from the Hass Avocado Producers and Exporters Corporation of Colombia, Corpohass, during the first half of the year, Colombia exported 27,085 tons of Hass avocado worth 53.8 million dollars. In the same period of 2018, the country exported 17,142 tons worth 38.8 million dollars.
This means that exports increased by 58% in volume, but only 39% in value. In both periods, the main destination for Colombian Hass avocado exports was Holland, from where it is distributed to the rest of Europe, with 46% of the total exported.
Between January and April of 2018, the average price per fruit stood at 1.2 dollars, while this year it decreased to 1 dollar. After April 19, this year's prices rose to nearly $1.5, but with a lot of volatility. Organic avocado had the same behavior but with a higher cost; the highest peak of the year was 3.5 dollars.
The increase in the planted area was another important factor. The area increased by 15% between 2017 and 2018 and stood at 15,530 hectares as of December last year.
Per capita consumption is also decisive; in Colombia, it stands at 4.5 kilograms per year, while other large producers, such as Israel and Mexico, consume 6 kg and 6.5 kg per year, respectively. Per capita consumption in the European Union is 1.2 kg, in Canada 2.5 kg, and in Russia 3.5kg.
Certified Exports
In order to export to international markets, producers must comply with certain requirements and have phytosanitary permits. As of August 31, 314 producers had a BPA seal; 403 producers have Global GAP requirement to export to the European Union, and 674 hectares are certified by Rain Forest.
World Avocado Congress
The World Avocado Congress will be held in Medellin from September 23 to 27. According to Tomas Rios, the general manager of Agrilink, 12 companies and 1,507 attendees participated in the latest version of the congress, which was held in Peru 2016. This year, 72 companies and some 3,400 attendees are expected to participate in the event. Nearly 60% of the companies and 40% of the attendees are Colombian.
Source: agronegocios.co
