South American Hass avocado markets show divergent export trends

The Hass avocado industry is seeing divergent trends in South America. In Peru, ProHass estimates that export volumes will decrease by 1.9% compared to the previous season. While initial forecasts predicted 6% growth, warmer temperatures caused by El Niño delayed the development of larger fruit sizes, forcing growers to wait longer for sufficient dry matter content before harvesting.

Peruvian exports are heavily concentrated in Europe, with the Netherlands serving as the primary transshipment hub. While demand remains steady in Europe, Peru has seen a significant decline in the United States market due to large harvests in Mexico and California. Conversely, Asia shows positive trends, led by China, Japan, and South Korea.

In contrast, Colombia's Hass avocado sector is expanding. According to Corpohass, the country has surpassed 39,000 hectares of planted area, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. Antioquia remains the leading region for cultivation. During the first half of 2026, Colombia exported approximately 88,194 tons of Hass avocados, generating nearly USD 168.9 million in revenue. The European Union and the United States remain the primary destinations for Colombian fruit.