Baika Colombia: Overcoming climate challenges and growing strongly in the international market
Baika Colombia, one of the leading avocado exporters in the South American country, has experienced exponential growth in recent years. With a solid strategy focused on quality, sustainability, and strengthening relationships with producers, the company has positioned itself as a benchmark in the sector.
September and December: a key period for Baika
While August was seen as a transitional month between the end of the off-season harvest and a slower start to the main season (24-25), September has brought a significant increase in export volumes nationwide. Favorable weather conditions, with a prolonged dry spell, have led to an increase in the fruit's dry matter content. This, combined with a strong demand for fruit in Europe, has created a positive outlook for Colombian fruit shipments to the continent through October.
Colombia is expected to export over 400 containers of avocados in September, with Baika playing a significant role in this increased volume. Given the current market conditions in Europe, it is anticipated that between 85% and 90% of these exports will be destined for this market. Following the early end of the Peruvian exporters' season, and as other sources such as Chile, Israel, Morocco, Mexico, and Spain begin to increase their harvest volumes, this market is likely to offer attractive prices for Colombian producers.
In this context, Baika expects to export approximately 3,000 tons between September and December. By the end of the year, the company anticipates exporting between 8,500 and 9,000 tons in 2024, solidifying its position in the Colombian export industry with its presence in key global markets and its leading role in the US market, where it has become the second-largest exporter of Colombian avocados so far in 2024.
Projections for 2025: sustained growth
Expectations for next year are ambitious. Baika Colombia, with a strong network of partner producers and 600 hectares of its own production, more than half of which are already in the productive stage, is preparing for significant growth in 2025. The company projects exporting between 10,500 and 11,500 tons of avocados in the first quarter, which will translate into shipments of more than 500 containers next year.
One of Baika Colombia's strengths is its close relationship with local producers. The company has committed to working with farmers who believe in cultivation, which not only guarantees product quality but also a positive impact on the environment. This sustainable approach has been key to maintaining stable production, even in the face of climate challenges.
Furthermore, Baika has invested in its own farmland, enabling the company to increase its export capacity. The combination of its own production and support for local farmers has allowed Baika to grow continuously and sustainably.
With a solid strategy and an ambitious vision for the future, Baika Colombia is consolidating its position as a benchmark in the avocado sector, contributing to the growth of the Colombian economy and bringing high-quality fruit to international markets.