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 Friuitnet. “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 says. “EqPaís aspires to consolidate a collaborative ecosystem that not only boosts the rural economy but also elevates Colombia as a benchmark for agricultural excellence.”
The project has already garnered enthusiastic support from one of Equilibria Agro’s key US customers, Dole. Its vice president of sales, Kevin Delaney, recently travelled to Colombia to learn more about EqPaís.
“Juan Pablo has a clear vision for positioning Colombia as a leader in global agriculture, and I really admire his ambition to transform the lime industry,” he tells Fruitnet. “His innovative approach, especially with the EqApp platform, has incredible potential to empower growers and streamline the supply chain, ensuring the highest standards of quality and sustainability. We’re excited to partner with him and support his mission to bring the best Colombian limes to the North American market.”
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.
Dirk Cederhout, sourcing manager, exotics at Nature’s Pride, believes Duque’s vision very much aligns with the Dutch company’s philosophy. “Equilibria is a progressive company trying to make impact through agriculture. By cultivating and exporting limes it is trying to improve livelihoods of local communities and create a higher standard,” he says.
“We had the opportunity to experience their vision and dedication during a visit in September. Their mission, vision, and dedication very much comply with the values and mission of Nature’s Pride which is why our companies have an excellent fit.”
As a business, Cederhout says Nature’s Pride strives to minimise its negative impact and maximise our positive impact. Social compliance and water are standard nowadays, but things like carbon emission, biodiversity, and WASH are becoming more and more important.
“It is inevitable that all stakeholders in the value chain must assume their responsibilities and make this part of their business, so it’s very important to work with the right partners who align on these themes,” he notes.
Crucially, these stakeholders include the European supermarkets. New EU regulations are forcing retailers to rethink how the goods they sell are produced, sourced and marketed as they move towards building more sustainable and transparent supply chains. This makes companies who meet these criteria attractive.
“It’s great to Equilibria Agro being one of the front runners in the industry and their believes in bringing transparency to the market on the one hand and making local impact on the other hand. This gives the company and product a real added value in the market,” Cederhout says.
