We are in the final stretch of the 2024-2025 season, and it's time to take a strategic look at what this period has been like and, above all, what lies ahead for Ecuadorian avocados. With the season projected to close in June, we have already made exports that allow us to anticipate a smooth conclusion. Peru's strong exports, especially to Europe and Russia, marked a significant turning point, but Ecuador has also been able to advance in parallel with a clear objective: market diversification.

The opening of the Costa Rican market is one of our most recent achievements, along with the start of operations in Canada. These two new markets represent a key opportunity to close this season strong, especially considering that the European and Russian markets remain robust in both volume and price. Adding to this is a strategic expectation: the visit of the APHIS technical team to Ecuador, scheduled for June, to conduct the final validation for access to the United States market. If all goes according to plan, we could finalize a symbolic first export shipment that same month, marking a significant milestone in our export journey.

However, our focus is already on the next growing season, which begins in September 2025. Fieldwork has been continuous and meticulous. The nutritional and phytosanitary practices carried out at this time of year are fundamental to ensuring quality and volume. After two years of drought (2022-2023 and 2023-2024), we are seeing a significant agricultural recovery that projects a growth of around 40% in volume compared to the last cycle.

This increased production, coupled with the opening of new markets, puts Ecuador in a favorable position. The country has nearby destinations, as well as established markets such as Europe, Russia, and the Middle East. Added to this are the opportunities presented by potential formal entry into the United States by the end of the year. Ecuadorian fruit has been very well received in recently opened markets, demonstrating proper ripening and performance that has generated confidence among buyers. This translates into a clear signal: Ecuador is a strong option for integrating importers' programs and plans for the 2025-2026 season.

The road hasn't been easy, but Ecuadorian avocados are reaping the rewards of a strategy focused on diversification, compliance, and quality. The next challenge is to consolidate each of these openings and meet the growing demand with a supply that lives up to expectations.

Santiago Pinto, Director, Iteranza, spinto@interanza.com , Ecuador