After more than ten years of joint work between authorities and private entities, the Central American country is moving towards opening the coveted US market, which could transform its industry and position it as a supplier of premium fruit.

Guatemala is on the verge of achieving a historic milestone: the export of Hass avocados to the United States market. After more than a decade of coordination between the local Ministry of Agriculture and the USDA-APHIS, the process has reached its final stage. According to Francis W. Bruderer, president of the Anaguacate association, the Working Plan has already been signed, and the protocol is now awaiting validation by the USDA and the national auditing entity, PIPAA. With five packing plants and 14 registered farms—and another seven in the process of registration—the country is preparing to launch a trade that promises to expand its horizons. Access to the United States market would not only mean faster shipments and fresher fruit, but also improved competitiveness based on quality.

The new destination represents a strategic opportunity compared to traditional markets like Europe, where shipments can take more than 30 days. To the United States, the fruit could arrive in less than nine days, allowing for a superior presentation on store shelves. For Bruderer, this competitive advantage is significant: Guatemala is aiming to position itself as a source of premium fruit, rather than competing in terms of volume. With only 3,400 hectares of technologically advanced orchards—in contrast to Michoacán's 270,000—the country seeks to distinguish itself through its rigorous production practices and collaboration with international experts. Access to this market could also facilitate entry into demanding destinations like Japan and China, which typically recognize U.S. sanitary protocols.

In addition to the progress made with the United States, Guatemala has recently signed an agreement with Argentina and is working on one with Chile. Diversifying markets will allow for better utilization of production, including fruit that doesn't meet visual standards but maintains excellent flavor. However, one of the biggest challenges has been phytosanitary compliance, especially regarding pests like the Macrocopturus aguacatae beetle. To address this, Anaguacate has implemented educational programs aimed at small and medium-sized producers. According to Bruderer, the industry's success will depend on these farmers adopting new technologies and becoming competitive players. "Avocados can be a powerful tool for rural development, reducing migration and strengthening Guatemalan families," he concludes.

Source: freshplaza.es