Despite the growth in avocado production and exports, planting in Colombia has slowed. Producers in the sector emphasize the importance of ensuring quality and opening new markets, while the industry advances in agro-industrialization with derivative products such as oil and guacamole.

The avocado industry in Colombia has experienced sustained growth, especially in regions like Quindío, Antioquia, Tolima, Cauca, and Norte de Santander. However, according to Diego Aristizábal, president of Fedeaguacate, the expansion of new plantations has slowed. Despite this, the sector has evolved its production techniques, developing agronomic protocols adapted to local conditions, which has led to improvements in fruit quality.

Currently, the Hass variety is the country's main export, with Europe as its largest market, followed by the United States, Canada, and Asia. In 2024, shipments to the U.S. grew significantly, increasing from 646 to 1,510 containers. Given the possibility of increased tariffs on Mexican avocados, Aristizábal believes Colombia could seize the opportunity to expand its presence in North America, although he emphasizes that the biggest challenge remains ensuring quality and safety in production.

In addition to fresh exports, the sector has ventured into the agro-industry with the production of avocado oil and guacamole, diversifying its business opportunities. However, a lack of financing and reduced investment in recent years have hampered the sector's expansion. Aristizábal emphasizes the need to attract new investors and strengthen access to credit to ensure sustained growth, with a focus on quality and sustainability.

Source: portalfruticola.com