"Colombian banana exports in 2024 surpassed the billion-dollar mark for the first time, reaching a total of 1.026 billion dollars. In addition, the sector continues to consolidate a unique social and labour sustainability model that has attracted international buyers' interest. Today, more than ever, we need the markets to recognize the real value of Colombian bananas," stated Emerson Aguirre, president of Augura, which leads more than 70% of the national banana sector.
According to Aguirre, one of the most notable aspects of the Colombian model is its 'social dialogue with workers' system, which has existed for over 38 years. "Ninety-two per cent of our workers are unionized and earn 1.6 times the minimum wage. This is no coincidence; it's the result of agreements between workers and producers who seek to dignify agricultural work," Aguirre stated. "This approach has allowed Colombia to stand out as a benchmark for compliance with due diligence policies, especially in the European market."
In addition, more than 600 small producers in Magdalena, grouped into cooperatives, actively participate in the production system, generating local economic development beyond the large export farms.
Aguirre also spoke about the challenge of maintaining international sustainability standards. "A single banana can be subject to up to 11 different certifications. That requires more than 60 days of audits per year. It is a huge challenge that impacts operating costs, "he said, suggesting the need for greater harmonization and efficiency between the labels required by the different markets.
Moreover, the 10% tariff imposed by the United States on Latin American suppliers - currently under review - has put the sector on alert. "An increase in this tariff exclusively for Colombia would leave us at risk in the U.S. market. We are working with the Colombian government to avoid this scenario, "Aguirre said. Around 15% of national banana exports, i.e., more than 15 million boxes, are destined for that country.
In terms of logistics, Colombia has had an advantage over other countries in the region thanks to its annual contracts with shipping companies, which have mitigated the effects of the global container crisis. "We do not depend on the spot market, which has given us greater stability," he said.
Finally, Aguirre calls on European supermarkets: "In the last decade, grape and orange prices have increased, but banana prices have not. It's time to stop being the cheapest fruit in the supermarket. We need a fair price to sustain the entire chain."
For more information:
Emerson Aguirre
Asociación de Bananeros de Colombia (Augura)
Tel.: +57 315 356 5815
Email: [email protected]
www.augura.com.co