Banana exports drop by 90%

Banana exports by Paraguay between January and March 2022 totaled 1.113 tons, according to local media. These figures indicate a drop of more than 90% compared to the 12.577 tons shipped in the same period of 2021.

1.091 tons of bananas were sent to Argentina and just a bit more than 20 tons to Uruguay. These shipments translate into losses of more than $4.6 million, according to foreign trade data from the Central Bank of Paraguay.

According to data from the Paraguayan Banana and Pineapple Chamber (Capabap), last year's frosts and drought reduced production by 70%, and this season's rains also affect the cultivation area without allowing a recovery.

The union estimates that a price of between 100.000 and 120.000 guaraní ($0.015 - $0.018) per box could compensate for the loss, however, the illegal entry of fruit from abroad pressures a drop.

Today the entry of this fruit from abroad is prohibited. Fruit from Argentina illegally enters through the cities of Encarnación, Ayolas and Pilar in the south of the country, which in turn is supplied from Ecuador, while Brazilian cargoes arrive in Asunción.

The growers submitted photographs proving how openly smuggled bananas are sold in retail centers and wholesale markets.

In addition to the economic damage, the illegal importation of fruit represents a risk of the entry of pests such as black Sigatoka and other diseases that are not present in the country.

source: ultimahora.com