New venture aims to raise the quality bar for Colombian-grown Persian limes and improve the lives of small farmers
Juan Pablo Duque, the founder and CEO of Colombia lime exporter Equilibria Agro, has set up a new venture to transform the country’s supply of Persian limes by bringing small and medium-sized producers under the Equilibria umbrella to create a productive block of 2,000ha that will supply the international market directly.
Equilibria Agro has 300ha of own production in the departments of Antioquia and Caldas and operates the third largest lime nursery in Colombia. With the incorporation of these new growers, Duque hopes to turbo charge the country’s supply of high-quality limes for export.
He describes EqPaís as “a modern cooperative with local impact and global vision”. Its aim is to capitalise on growing international demand for Colombian limes, while boosting productivity and sustainable development in the Colombian countryside. According to Duque, just 6 per cent of Colombia’s lime production is currently registered by the Colombian Institute of Agriculture (ICA) for export, even though they are highly valued in the international market for their high juice content and exceptional flavour.
“EqPaís marks a new era in Colombian agriculture by reducing intermediaries in the supply chain, allowing producers to access better margins and economic benefits,” he tells Fruitnet. “Our goal is to transform the lives of rural families through sustainable income and agricultural projects that enhance their quality of life. Achieving this harmony is the true formula for peace in Colombia.”
The initiative will leverage the advanced technology of EqApp, an app-based technology platform created by Duque to efficiently manage and monitor agricultural activities and provide remote technical assistance to growers. Focused on lime production, EqPaís enables agronomists to provide support and advice without the need for travel, thus optimising the scope and efficiency of farmer support.
“This will ensure consistent, high-quality production that meets the stringent standards of international markets and guarantees product traceability and sustainability,” Duque said. “EqPaís aspires to consolidate a collaborative ecosystem that not only boosts the rural economy but also elevates Colombia as a benchmark for agricultural excellence.”
One of Colombia’s big advantages is that it can grow Persian limes year-round due the variation in topographies and altitudes. But prices are heavily influenced by seasonal supply fluctuations on the global market. In the US, for example, around 95 pe cent of imported limes come from Mexico and the best prices for Colombian limes are in the February to April window when Mexican supply is lowest. In Europe, Duque says the best price window is from July to September. Nevertheless, the company’s goal is to establish 12-month programmes with key partners.
