Global Avocado Exports Decline Amid Holiday Shipping Woes

Avocados ready for export but facing declines due to holiday shipping issues.

News Summary

As the holiday season wraps up 2024, the global avocado market faces challenges with a notable decline in exports. In the U.S., shipments dropped by 27% in the last week of the year, causing a spike in prices, particularly for larger avocados. This trend is also observed in Europe and China, where significant shipment reductions have affected availability. Meanwhile, Chile reports a 93% increase in annual exports, showcasing resilience despite recent declines. The avocado landscape remains fluid as experts anticipate detailed insights in the upcoming Avobook Report.

Avocado Exports Decline Globally as Holiday Season Affects Shipments and Prices Spike in the U.S.

As we wrap up 2024, the global avocado market has hit a bit of a snag. It seems that the holiday season has put a dent in avocado export volumes, leading to some unexpected changes in availability and pricing, especially in the United States. So, let’s break this down and see what’s happening!

Shipping Woes During the Holidays

As everyone gets busy with holiday festivities, it looks like avocado shipments have taken a sharp downturn. In the U.S., shipments plummeted by a notable 27% in week 52, which signifies the last week of the year. This drop can largely be attributed to the rush of the holiday season when many avocado suppliers focus on domestic demands rather than exporting.

Most of the avocados we enjoy in the States come from Mexico, and this holds true now more than ever, with Mexico contributing a whopping 94% of the total avocado shipments entering the U.S. Even with this strong supply, the holiday rush has still created some supply challenges.

Price Surge for Avocados

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Because of the decreased shipments, prices for large avocados in the U.S. experienced a significant spike. At their peak, they soared to $72.5 for a 25-pound box! For anyone keeping tabs, that’s quite the price jump during this time of year, typically known for lower prices as supply stabilizes.

What’s Happening Across the Pond?

Over in Europe, avocado shipments have also felt the impact of the holiday season. Shipments to Europe reported a 21% decline, predominantly driven by reductions from Israel and Colombia, both key players in the avocado game. Interestingly, while prices for small avocados in this region remained steady, large avocados didn’t fare as well, with their prices dropping by 10%.

The Situation in China

Meanwhile, China isn’t seeing better luck either. Imports of avocados in the country have decreased by 24% compared to the previous week. However, there is hope on the horizon as traders anticipate a recovery in shipments very soon. Fingers crossed that this translates to more avocados hitting the market shortly!

Chilean Salt in the Wound

Chile has also dealt with its share of difficulties, experiencing a 27% drop in weekly avocado shipments. Despite this slump, they have some good news to share – for the year, their avocado exports have soared by 93% compared to the previous year’s figures! Clearly, Chile is experiencing some remarkable growth, even as they contend with this recent shipping decline.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we leap into 2025, detailed information on the global avocado market is anticipated in the upcoming Avobook Report. Experts will undoubtedly shed light on these current trends and possibly share insights on how things might change in the new year.

As always, Avocado lovers should keep an eye on their grocery bills and maybe even adjust their guacamole consumption for a little while. With prices fluctuating and supplies expected to stabilize soon, it’ll be intriguing to see how the avocado landscape continues to evolve in the upcoming weeks. Let’s hope for a fruitful year ahead!