Imported banana affects Canary Island banana prices

Bananas from the Canary Islands have had a record year in sales, reaching 440 million kilos sold in 2023. However, the sector faces significant challenges, especially competition from imported bananas, which have competitive advantages and affect prices.

 

Rising temperatures in 2023 led to a 35% increase in banana production. Despite this, prices have fallen, which has led the sector to a critical economic situation, according to the Association of Banana Producers' Organizations of the Canary Islands (Asprocan).

 

The total market amounted to 1,347 million euros in 2023, with 900 million corresponding to bananas from the Canary Islands and 447 million to banana imports. Despite similar wholesale prices, the final consumer price is much higher for bananas from the Canary Islands.

 

Canary Islands producers point out that imported bananas have unfair advantages in the market due to unequal distribution policies and different labor standards. They seek solutions such as "mirror clauses" in trade agreements, but face obstacles in the EU.

 

At the national level, complementary actions are needed to address the drop in fruit and vegetable consumption in Spain. The recovery of domestic demand could help improve the sector's profitability.

 

 

 

 

fuente: elmundo.es