Green plantain production decreases 50% in the first semester
Ecuador
Thursday 07 July 2022
VU
According to data from Fenaprope, between January and June 2021, the Ecuadorian production of fresh plantains reached 56.948.758 boxes and 1.597.032 boxes of dry plantains (snacks). However, in 2022, in this same period, production decreased by 50%. (photo:elpais.com)
Fresh plantain production is not seen growing in Ecuador, but its supply is in demand in markets of the United States, the European Union and Africa, generating income of more than $100 million annually.
According to data from Fenaprope, between January and June 2021, the Ecuadorian production of fresh plantains reached 56.948.758 boxes and 1.597.032 boxes of dry plantains (snacks). However, in 2022, in this same period, production decreased by 50%.
Data from the Ministry of Agriculture (MAG) indicates that in 2020 there was also a decrease in supply of at least 28 tons. It went from 749 T in 2019 to 722 T in 2020, nationwide.
At the same time, the Ecuadorian green plantain in snack presentation is gaining popularity in the United States and Africa. According to Fenatrope, the United States receives 5 to 6 containers per week from Ecuador and Africa receives 2.
With a 1.7% share, Ecuador is positioned as the thirteenth producer of green plantains in the world, and the third in Latin America, behind Colombia and the Dominican Republic. At the same time, it is the third largest exporter of plantains worldwide, with a 15% share.
According to data from the Central Bank of Ecuador, in 2021 green plantain exports totaled 211.950 T for $104 million. Shipments were mainly destined for the United States (65.1%), the European Union (17.3%) and Chile (10.4%).
The production of this fruit takes place in 21 provinces of the country and occupies an area of 128.861 hectares. Manabí is the main producing region with 40% of the total harvest.
source:expreso.co