"Ecuador exported 169.96 million boxes of bananas between January and May 2025, which is 5.53% more than in the same period of last year. The Chinese, Russian, and EU markets have driven growth. In contrast, exports to Algeria and the United Kingdom decreased," stated Richard Salazar, executive director of Acorbanec (Ecuador's Banana Marketing and Export Association).
The growth in these first five months is a positive sign for the sector. "Exports to China increased by 45.56%, which amounts to more than 2.5 million additional boxes compared to 2024. Exports to the United States, East Asia, the Southern Cone, and Eastern Europe also increased significantly," Salazar stated.
Exports are not growing everywhere. "Exports to Algeria fell by 93.9%, mainly due to diplomatic tensions. In addition, sales to the United Kingdom fell by 16.7% and to Oceania by 11.6%. Thus, we must re-evaluate our strategy in these destinations," Salazar stated.
The weekly average bagging was slightly lower than in May 2024, at 41.08 units per hectare, affected by unfavourable weather conditions. However, the yields per bunch have improved, which has allowed sustaining export volumes," he stated.
"We are in a complex context. Guatemala and the Philippines offer bananas at lower prices, putting pressure on our margins. In addition, banana prices in Germany and the Netherlands have been below cultivation costs," he stated.
According to Salazar, the sector must focus on efficiency and diversification. "There are opportunities to continue growing, but the sector has to adapt quickly.
It is not just about selling more. We must also ensure the sustainability of growers and the export chain in general."
"Despite the challenges, the balance up to May is positive and reinforces Ecuador's position as the world's main banana supplier. Maintaining growth without sacrificing competitiveness will be key," Salazar stressed.
For more information:
Richard Salazar Veloz
Acorbanec
Ecuador
Tel: +593 4 2136320/ +593 4 21336348
Email: [email protected]
www.acorbanec.com