Ecuadorian pitahaya exports increased by 72% in 2023 as sales amounted to $171 million. This achievement highlights the importance of pitahaya for the 15,000 Ecuadorian families devoted to its cultivation, a tradition that began 40 years ago in the canton of Palora, in the province of Morona Santiago.
The United States is the most important export market with an 80% share. Other important markets are Hong Kong, Spain, Peru, and Canada. Pitahaya is grown not only in Morona Santiago, but also in 10 other provinces. Producers have diversified production and now grow yellow and red pitahaya, which has generated more than 3,000 additional jobs in the region.
Ecuadorian producers see the Chinese market as an opportunity for growth. The trade agreement between Ecuador and China, which will enter into force in May 2024, could mean the end of the 20% tariff currently faced by Ecuadorian pitahaya opening new doors for its commercialization in Asia.
Source: ecuavisa.com