With a participation of just 0.3%, Colombian supply still makes up a small part of the US$1.2 billion EU Hass avocado market but volumes have been growing steadily in recent years. 

According to figures released by newspaper Portafolio, the country's exports of the heart-healthy fruit rose 188% in 2015.

The story reported the increase was supported by consumer trends toward convenient and healthy products, particularly in France, Spain, Germany and the U.K.

On the supply side, governmental export promotion agency ProColombia has been working with growers to make sure they meet the right international standards, while also coordinating with European groups like the Swiss Import Promotion Programme (SIPPO) which will be arranging a buyer mission to Colombia and Peru later this year.

The story reported the country could produce year-round due to its variety of climates and altitudes, with around 30% of cultivation dedicated to the Hass cultivar.

Total Colombian avocado production is around 350,000 metric tons (MT) annually, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, grown over an area of 50,000 hectares; the vast majority of production is focused in the departments of Tolima and Antioquia with 49% of production.

Related stories: Colombia: Eje Cafetero to start Hass avocado export campaign this week

¡Ay, Carambola! Carving out new Colombian fruit export options

Spain: Colombian avocados light new spark for Sigfrido Fruit

www.freshfruitportal.com