SUBTROPICAL FRUIT
The world of avocados As a leading producer and exporter, South Africa expects an uptick in avocado exports this season, mainly due to momentum in the world economy. Global production and demand influence the local industry. The healthy nature and multiple uses of avocados result in strong consumer demand for avocados.
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outh Africa is a leading producer and exporter of avocados. In addition, South Africa supplies avocados to many global markets across the world. Over the last five years, the South African avocado sector harvested approximately 125 000 tons of avocados per annum. The area under commercial avocado orchards stands around 14 700 hectares, with new plantings of about 900 hectares added per annum. The avocado sector contributes to at least 11 500 jobs on farms and packhouses. South Africa expects an uptick in avocado exports this season of 66 000 tons compared to 60 000 tons in the previous season. During the past year, there has been a lot happening globally that influenced the industry in South Africa. According to a recent report by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Mexican avocado production for the marketing year 2021/22
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is forecasted to be 8% lower than the previous marketing year's record production. While production will remain strong, growers expect trees will need to recover for a season. In addition, high international demand and attractive global prices have encouraged producers to export products for higher returns. And while Michoacán is the only state with phytosanitary certification to export to the United States, exports to other global markets are expected to increase in the coming years. According to the USDA’s report, Mexico is the largest avocado producer in the world, accounting for 30% of global production. Planted area is steadily increasing year over year, at an annual growth rate of 3%, mainly due to high profitTO PAGE 14
VEGETABLES & FRUIT | NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2021
