Avocados from Colombia braced for US expansion

Colombia, the fourth largest exporter of Hass avocados to the US, is preparing to supply 130mn lbs to the US market during the 2025 spring-summer traviesa season.

With maturing orchards, expanded production, and a growing shift in export volume to the US market, peak volumes are expected at the end of April and into May. Hass avocados from this traviesa season are expected to be available till August.

Avocados from Colombia (AFC) offer year-round supply with two seasons. The main season starting in the fall, from approximately September to February, and the secondary traviesa season beginning in the spring, from approximately March to August.

Since receiving USDA approval for imports to the US in 2017, Colombia’s avocado industry has experienced year-over-year growth, driven by expansion of certified acres and packinghouses.

Following a successful and extended main harvest season, in which 50mn lbs was shipped to the US market, AFC said the industry is poised for continued growth in 2025. Consistent rainfall and favourable climatic conditions have led to stronger yields and enhanced fruit quality for the upcoming traviesa season.

However, it is recognised that sustained success depends not only on favourable conditions, but also on applying expanded learnings and adopting new avocado rootstock specific to the growing conditions in Colombia. As the foundation of a tree, high-quality rootstock plays a critical role in producing consistent volumes, and higher quality fruit, ensuring long-term growth and resilience of Colombia’s avocado industry.

“As US avocado consumption continues to grow, diversifying supply sources with options like Colombia is essential to meeting consumer demand and ensuring the category’s long-term success,” said Manuel Michel, managing director of the Colombia Avocado Board (CAB).

“Over the last 25 years, avocado consumption has increased from 2.1lbs per capita to 9.2lbs per capita, with 76 per cent of households now purchasing avocados. Colombia’s avocado industry is still developing, but through collaboration and a commitment to best practices, growers are focused on delivering the quality and eating experience that consumers expect.”

With the projected volumes for this traviesa season, Colombia hopes to increase its US market share through August, surpassing previous years. Most of the fruit will continue to be shipped to East Coast ports. The primary fruit size is expected to be 60s, with the early crop skewing smaller at 70s. Additionally, 48s and 84s will be available throughout the season, ensuring a diverse size range to meet market demand.

“It feels like the start of a new era,” said Brock Becker, CAB’s secretary and import director from Mission Produce. “After years of gradual production growth and industry learning, we are making significant progress in developing confidence with the Colombian origin that benefits both retailers and consumers.

“Last year, was pivotal for us in supporting new in-store experiences to introduce Colombian fruit to the US market. Like anything new, there is always room for improvement, but we are confident that Colombia is becoming a reliable year-round supply option for US buyers.”