Avocado is the third most exported fruit from Colombia
Colombia is consolidating its position as a key supplier of Hass avocados in the global market, with the Netherlands and the United States as its main export destinations.
In 2023, Colombia emerged as a key player in the global Hass avocado market, primarily using maritime transport for its exports. That year, 5,155 containers were shipped from Colombian ports to various international destinations, with the Netherlands and the United States standing out as the main recipients, receiving 2,712 and 612 boxes respectively. These exports generated US$199 million in revenue, solidifying avocados as the country's third most exported fruit and second in terms of income.
This crop is one of the most lucrative and sustainable in Colombia. Favorable climatic and rainfall conditions in the mountainous regions, along with the use of drip irrigation systems, allow for minimal water consumption. The Hass avocado industry not only contributes significantly to the economy but also benefits 240,000 people and generates 61,063 jobs, according to data from Corpohass. This sustainability and economic contribution reinforce the Hass avocado's position as a key crop in the country.
Hass avocado production in Colombia covers 32,132 hectares distributed across 3,533 farms. Antioquia leads production with 12,208 hectares, followed by Caldas with 6,956 hectares, Valle del Cauca with 4,966 hectares, Quindío with 2,471 hectares, and other regions with a total of 2,307 hectares. This sector represents 6% of Colombia's GDP and contributes 1.5% to the agricultural GDP, highlighting its importance to both the national economy and the livelihoods of thousands of families.