Colombia establishes itself as global power in avocados

Colombia continues to establish itself as one of the largest exporters of Hass avocados in the world. According to customs data, the country exported 102,376 tonnes of Hass avocados between January and September 2024, an increase of 15.77 per cent compared to the same period in 2023. These exports generated at least US$219mn in revenue, 42 per cent up on the year-earlier period. In September alone, exports reached 11,909 tonnes, generating US$27mn, a remarkable 178 per cent increase on the same month in 2023.

Against this backdrop of growth, players from across the avocado business will meet in Medellín’s Plaza Mayor on 27-28 November for Territorio Aguacate 2024.

The annual event continues to position itself as a key platform for advancing the sector, attracting producers, exporters, processors, researchers, international buyers, and other key players in the avocado value chain. As the second-highest revenue-generating fruit for Colombia, the goal is to foster commercial connections and promote sustainable practices that meet international quality standards.

“Territorio Aguacate provides a space to strengthen skills in sustainable production and responsible agricultural practices. This enables Hass from Colombia to stand out in international markets, position the country as a reliable supplier, and contribute to the economic growth of the community,” said Katheryn Mejía Vergel, executive director of Corpohass (the Colombian Hass Avocado Producers and Exporters Association), the organisation behind the event.

The 2024 edition of Territorio Aguacate will cover new trends to address the demands of an increasingly competitive global market. Technology and digitalisation will play a key role, with new tools to enhance traceability, quality control, and supply chain efficiency, optimising the connection between producers and buyers. This year’s focus is sustainability, encompassing environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

“The academic agenda has also expanded to include over 60 training sessions covering topics such as cost optimisation, crop health, and the perception of avocados in the US and European markets. Additionally, networking and commercial partnerships will be emphasised with a business matchmaking event and participation from a prominent group of international buyers, fostering strategic alliances and strengthening the sector’s competitiveness in Colombia,” said María Alejandra Madrid, general director of Agrilink, Corpohass’s partner for the event.

For more information and press accreditation, contact: comunicaciones@corpohass.com