We are on the cusp of the next ten most intense weeks of the Ecuadorian avocado season. Our peak production and export season is approaching. And this is no small matter: this has been an unusual year. Traditionally, the largest volume is concentrated between the end of January and February. This time, the calendar has shifted, and with it, our certainties.

I confess there were doubts. When you know that other origins overlap before January and after February, it's inevitable to wonder if the timing will work in your favor or against you. We are not—yet—a major global player. We are a growing origin, a country that is advancing step by step, with discipline and a long-term vision. And precisely for that reason, every decision carries weight.

However, current circumstances have presented us with an opportunity that seemed distant just a few years ago. The market is looking at Ecuador with genuine interest. Not by chance, but because of quality, consistency, and the work that has been done as a country. And also, it must be said, because the international context has changed.

Production problems in nearby countries like Morocco, Spain, and Israel, and the gradual closure of campaigns like Colombia's, have reshaped the landscape. In this scenario, Ecuador is no longer a marginal alternative. It's a source that must be considered, one that is available and that can deliver.

Today we have the opportunity to reaffirm that confidence. It's not just about selling well these ten weeks; it's about consolidating our position. About demonstrating that, regardless of what happens in other countries, Ecuador can be a reliable and competitive partner. What we achieve now will be the foundation for the next campaign, when the volume will be greater and the demands higher as well.

There's another factor working in our favor: price signals. Customer, market, and various portal data indicate that prices are likely to hold steady, at least until April. This gives us some breathing room. It allows us to think strategically about destinations we previously viewed with more caution. Some of the production that was traditionally sold in nearby markets can now explore Europe and Asia with better prospects.

But it's not all about external factors. Internally, this campaign confirms concrete progress. We've reduced the number of discards and increased the proportion of medium and large-sized fruit. There are still some small-sized fruit remaining, yes. And the market is changing rapidly. Today, paradoxically, small-sized fruit is finding opportunities due to the shortage of large fruit in several markets. The challenge will be to accurately assess this opportunity and act swiftly.

Meanwhile, the local market will also be put to the test. The next six weeks of intense sales will reshape the domestic supply. So far, prices have held steady, although occasional adjustments are reasonable to expect. A more balanced post-season supply period will follow, which should bring some stability in the coming weeks.

We are, therefore, at a pivotal moment. Ecuador is not only exporting more; it is building a reputation. And that is earned campaign after campaign, box after box, client after client.

The next ten weeks will not only define a commercial outcome. They will determine whether we take the definitive leap towards consolidating our position as a relevant origin on the global avocado map.

The market is already watching us. Now it's up to us to prove they can count on us.

Santiago Pinto
Director Iteranza
spinto@interanza.com
Ecuador