In an interview with Katheryn Mejía, executive director of Corpohass, various topics related to the Hass avocado sector in Colombia were addressed, including climate management, crop expansion, access to new markets and strategies to face international competition.

Mejía explained that Colombia is consolidating its position as a major exporter of Hass avocados, with projections of 147,000 tons for 2024.

“According to the statistics we have been keeping at Corpohass, the off-season and main harvests typically account for around 35-37% of the total, while the off-season accounts for 62-65% of the main harvest. However, 2023 showed atypical patterns, probably due to the La Niña phenomenon, which had its greatest impact that year. This caused the off-season to account for 24% of the total and the main harvest for 76%,” he added.

Regarding the actual number of hectares of Hass avocado currently existing in the South American country, Mejía explained that, according to the census carried out by the Ministry of Agriculture 5 years ago, there are about 55,000 hectares of Hass avocado planted in Colombia and, at the moment, there is no data on other varieties that have been planted in the country.

With reference to the strategies they are implementing to mitigate the impact of the climate, whether due to continuous rains or periods without rain, Mejía emphasized that the sector has been preparing to adapt to climate change.

“The sector has prepared itself to adapt to climate change. First, we have compiled statistics to understand how crops behave in response to phenomena like El Niño and La Niña. We have also implemented agricultural practices, such as improved drainage in crops and rainwater harvesting for use during dry periods. In addition, we are closely monitoring climate forecasts from the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM). Furthermore, Corpohass, in collaboration with the Colombian Farmers' Association (SAC), participates in a working group that provides us with weekly climate forecasts. With this information, we send alerts to our members so they can prepare and continue implementing new practices.”

Sector growth and strategies to address the challenges

Mejía explains that the country currently has 55,000 hectares, distributed across 16 departments and more than 220 municipalities, dedicated to producing Hass avocados, while the growth and development of the sector is more focused on bringing those 55,000 hectares into production.

“Let’s remember that the country has approximately 32,000 hectares registered as Exporting Farms, indicating significant potential for growth in the production and export of the fruit. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that Corpohass is leading an initiative called the Hass Map, which aims to diagnose and gather information in each producing municipality and department to understand the current state of the orchards and make growth projections for the coming years,” he added.

Regarding the growth of the avocado market and the entry of new producing countries, Mejía emphasizes that one of the great advantages of the Colombian fruit is its good positioning in Europe and the United States.

“As more producing countries enter the markets, the challenges increase. In Europe, we face challenges with the implementation of the Green Deal. However, we are working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and the FAO to prepare for this scenario in Europe. Colombian fruit has an advantage in being recognized in Europe and the United States for its high quality and sustainability, reflected in our socio-environmental certifications.”

Furthermore, our "Avocado from Colombia" brand highlights our commitment to sustainability and positive impact on the economy, society, and environment. In the United States, we aim to conquer the East Coast, and to that end, we are preparing in terms of quality and projecting consistent volumes.

Regarding the authorization of hectares permitted by the United States, Chile, and other markets, Mejía argues that, while they are working closely with the Colombian Agricultural Institute to prioritize authorization for key markets such as the U.S. and Chile, their priority is focused on consolidating and serving the markets in which they are growing.

“We have worked closely with the Colombian Agricultural Institute to prioritize opening up key markets such as the US and Chile. We have a good understanding of the production areas with potential and the necessary operational requirements. We are also making monthly projections to increase the number of farms opened. For now, we are focused on serving Europe well, continuing to grow in the US, and consolidating our product in the Chilean market. In the future, we will consider other options, such as avocado derivatives or processed products.”