Ecuador remains the world’s top banana exporter despite obstacles

In 2024, Ecuador remained the world’s top banana exporter, shipping 346.16 million boxes — 1.42% (or 5.06 million boxes) more than in 2023, according to the Association of Banana Exporters (AEBE).

The industry faced tough conditions, including extreme weather, transportation delays, power shortages, and security issues. Still, exports increased, mainly due to higher demand from the European Union (+3.18%), the United States (+24.85%), the Southern Cone (+12.95%), Eastern Europe (+30.05%), Asia (+4.92%), and EFTA countries (+24.50%).

However, sales dropped in Russia (-11.54%), the Middle East (-6.66%), Central Asia (-11.7%), and the United Kingdom (-11.12%). The European Union remained the largest buyer, accounting for 29.03% of total exports, with shipments reaching 105.71 million boxes — 3.26 million more than in 2023. The biggest increases were seen in Malta, France, Italy, and Germany, which together added 8.27 million boxes.

Asia also saw modest growth, with 1.09 million more boxes shipped. South Korea stood out, increasing imports by 220.9%, adding 2.98 million boxes. Meanwhile, exports to Russia fell by 8.75 million boxes, but it still ranked as Ecuador’s second-largest market with an 18.42% share. Exports to China dropped by 2.3 million boxes (-14.96%), despite hopes for growth after a free trade agreement.

Globally, the banana trade was impacted by droughts in Panama and shipping disruptions in the Red Sea. Within Ecuador, security problems and energy shortages made transportation and production difficult. Additionally, droughts and cold weather in El Oro province reduced supply for several weeks in the second half of the year.

source: efeagro.com

photo: msc.com