Spotlight on avocados and mangoes at Macfrut 2026

Avocados have had a significant impact on dietary habits, surpassing other foods in this regard. In fact, ISTAT (the Italian National Institute of Statistics) has now included avocados in its consumer goods basket. Thanks to their well-known nutritional benefits and culinary versatility, avocados and mangoes have become staple ingredients in many households around the world. 

Consumption multiplied by 4 in a decade

Consumption of avocados in Italy has increased fourfold over the last decade, with a per capita increase of 694%. Over the past six years (2019-2024), the value of avocado consumption in Italy has grown by 317%, with increases of 33.5% in 2023 and 12.6% in 2024. This upward trend in value has also impacted the mango market: +24% in 2023 and +12.6% in 2024. In light of the positive growth trend observed across Europe, Sicily is presented with one of the major opportunities to invest in the production of these two types of tropical fruit.

B2B meetings, tastings and conferences

As announced this Wednesday 17th of September by Macfrut organisers Cesena Fiera during a press conference in Sicily, Macfrut 2026 will host two exclusive B2B events Avocado Day and Mango Day. During these two days, meetings will be held between international producers, traders and buyers, offering a unique opportunity to build new connections, enter into trade agreements and keep up to date with current market trends. Participants will have access to a targeted programme including scheduled meetings, tasting sessions and networking opportunities.

International focus on the Caribbean

The Caribbean is a highly dynamic region within the global fruit and vegetable industry thanks to its ideal climate and fertile soils for tropical fruit, inclusive for avocado and mango. Several countries that have participated in Macfrut for many years will play a key role in this edition, as they will be taking part in business events and presentations alongside major institutions and exporting companies. The Caribbean region is home to several of the world’s leading producers and exporters, which include countries such as the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Venezuela, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico. The total export value of the region in question exceeds $30 billion, with the tropical fruit and vegetable sector generating a surplus of around $12.8 billion.

For more information about the opportunities of the Italian tropical fruit market, you can write here.