Avocado is an essential fruit in Colombian gastronomy that is highly valued for its nutritional contributions. However, due to a notable price increase, it is becoming a luxury item. This increase has generated concerns among consumers and traders.
According to official data, the average price of avocado in the wholesale market of Antioquia has increased from $3,679 to $6,329 per kilo over the past year. In Bogota, the average cost went from $5,440 to $8,031 per kilo in the same period. This increase is attributed to the transition between harvests, which has limited product availability and increased demand.
According to Katheryn Mejia, executive director of Corpohass, there's a gap in availability because the main harvest ended in February and the next one will start in mid-April. The increase in domestic demand from the processing industry for avocado paste and oil and the impact of El Niño and other weather conditions have also contributed to spiking prices.
Despite these challenges, Colombian Hass avocado exports increased by 53% in January over the same month last year. However, the transition between harvests has caused fluctuations, with a 44.7% decrease in February. Corpohass projects a 20% growth in exports by the end of 2024.
Colombia exports avocados to the Netherlands, the United States, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Germany, and Hong Kong. It is also trying to gain entry to markets such as Chile and Asia. Despite the uncertainty, the sector is committed to overcoming the current challenges and maintaining the sustainable growth of this key industry for the country's economy.
Source: portafolio.co