Colombian woman achieves financial success in the United Arab Emirates by selling Latin American avocados.
Catalina Oñate, originally from Bogotá, Colombia, has built a successful business in the United Arab Emirates by founding Best of Latin Foodstuff Trading LLC, an importer of avocados, fruits, and vegetables from Latin America. With seven years of experience, her company generates $3.5 million in annual revenue and ships at least 32 tons of avocados per month to the UAE. Oñate has become the leading supplier of exotic fruits and vegetables to luxury hotels and restaurants in the region, serving 150 clients and sourcing products from Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Ecuador.
Emphasizing the importance of avocados, Oñate highlights the close relationship with suppliers, primarily farmers, and their commitment to quality: "The work goes from the farm to the table." His company also offers a wide range of products from various Latin American countries, such as Colombian fruits, exotic fruits from Ecuador, chili peppers from Peru, and vegetables from Mexico. Despite its expansion, Oñate considers his company a small to medium-sized business, employing 15 people.
Her inspiration came from noticing Colombia's absence from the list of fresh fruit and vegetable exporters to the United Arab Emirates during her time in Ras al-Khaimah. Despite studying Business Administration, her passion for entrepreneurship led her to explore this niche, with her brother Gabriel providing logistical support.
Recognized as the largest importer of Latin American products in the United Arab Emirates, Oñate has expansion plans and opened an office in Saudi Arabia in 2024. Its success has garnered attention from Arab media, highlighting its contribution to Colombia's image and economy. Despite leaving Colombia more than a decade ago, Oñate is proud to represent the region's culture and cuisine abroad: "I feel we represent the region's culture and cuisine very well."
