In our constant search for opportunities and challenges in the avocado market, this week takes us to Ecuador to learn about the potential of our sister and neighboring country.

Ecuador has great potential to become a major producer and exporter of this fruit. Ecuadorian agriculture is known for its banana, cacao, and flower production, but there is also growing interest in cultivating exotic fruits such as pitahaya, avocado, and papaya. And it is precisely the avocado that has caught our attention, as its potential is similar to that of Colombia.

Ecuador's geographic location is ideal for exporting avocados to North American and European markets, as well as to the Asian market. The harvest season coincides with the end of the Colombian season, currently in February, March, and April, depending on the regional market, offering an opportunity to meet the demand in these markets.

Unlike our Colombian neighbors, rainfall is lower here despite similar soil conditions. Cattle ranchers, be careful and don't repeat the same mistakes!

The areas harvested per hour are smaller and are distributed between Imbabura (20%), Santa Elena (50%), and the remainder spread across Pichincha (30%), roughly speaking. This amounts to approximately 1000 hectares, many of which are grouped under Corpoaguacate ( https://corpoaguacate.org.ec ).

For any new project, it is essential to check soil compaction and perform pre-transplant treatment. We also suggest testing suitable rootstocks for each potentially productive region.

Regarding water issues, the Ecuadorian government must clearly regulate water allocations for this crop and establish clear environmental regulations. This will provide companies interested in investing in the avocado sector with clear rules.

We recommend that Ecuadorian government entities seek advice from the Peruvian specialists who drafted the famous Agrarian Law in Peru, and that they facilitate foreign investment in Ecuador.

This isn't about letting investors do whatever they want; it's about ensuring that regulations facilitate the investments so vital for creating decent jobs in rural areas. It's a matter of national policy.

#corpoaguacate #agroleal

Alfredo Lira Chirif, Peru alfredo@agroleal.pro