Europe received nearly 1,150 containers in week 17, more than 50% of what was moved during the same period last year. In contrast, the United States barely exceeded 1,300 trucks, a 25% decrease compared to what it received in 2024, just before Cinco de Mayo.

As we've been discussing in previous weeks, turning points continue to emerge in the markets. Europe is beginning to receive Peruvian shipments in significant quantities, driven by a 37% increase compared to last year. Meanwhile, in the United States, prices are starting to correct downwards, especially for smaller sizes, due to oversupply.

In the case of Colombia, this week and projections for the following weeks show 65% of exports going to the US, representing approximately 4% of the market share. Exports to Europe, on the other hand, fell by 10% compared to the previous week, also maintaining a market share of around 4%. It would seem, then, that the spot market in Europe is beginning to tighten, while the US remains attractive, albeit with the specific characteristics and risks we are already familiar with.

In the fields, rain continues to play a major role. Persistent rainfall impacts all phases of the process. In the short term, it hinders harvesting, transport from the farm, and arrival at ports. In the medium term, it affects dry matter development and increases the risk of diseases such as anthracnose in long-distance transit destinations. In the long term, it influences flowering in future seasons.

The predominant sizes continue to be baby and medium sizes, and the top 5 exporters maintain strategies focused on consignment. Regarding proposed prices, the weighted average is COP 7,500 for large sizes, COP 4,700 for medium sizes, and COP 2,000 for baby sizes, with respective purchase restrictions based on quality and condition.

We'll have to keep an eye on Peru, which is setting the pace for the market. Meanwhile, amidst downpours, partial harvests, and fluctuating markets, we continue searching for the best destination for each fruit.

Jorge Molina Duque, Operations Manager, Quality Studio CO, jorge.molina@qualitystudio.cl , Colombia