From the diverse topography to its ideal growing conditions, Colombia is a haven for some of the world’s high-quality exotic fruits, namely the green superfood we all love – the avocado. The country is slowly emerging as the third largest avocado producer in the world, following Mexico and the Dominican Republic with local avocado production exceeding 1.5% export growth throughout the first half of 2022 to markets in Europe and Asia.
Another major advantage of Colombia as an avocado exporter is its close proximity to key markets in the United States. With ZIM’s Latin America network serving this commodity sector with weekly direct services from Colombia, avocado shipments are just 10 days away from Houston.
As for new local export markets, Catalina Gaviria – ZIM Colombia Sales Executive, explains that there are always opportunities to discover: “While our biggest volumes are avocados, ZIM Colombia is fully committed to grow. We constantly look to diversify and reach new market opportunities that meet the international demands of our customers.”
The ZIM reefer team in Colombia recognizes the increasing demand of this sensitive commodity sector, “We believe in always being open with our customers and having their back, especially when dealing with sensitive cargo and timely deliveries. This is an important value for our customers. We even took the time to visit the avocado plantation, where the fruit packaging takes place.”
The Israeli avocado season is just around the corner
Israel stands high on the list of countries producing avocados at large scales. Most avocado harvests surround Israel’s agricultural fields along the Mediterranean coast, with exports reaching major destinations in Northern Europe. The avocado season in Israel usually begins in October and lasts until the end of March. The last season closed with a significant increase of over 30% in avocado exports out of Israel, and production is expected to grow in the future as new avocado plantations will begin to reach maturity.
ZIM Israel’s Reefer Department, led by Moti Azari, sees great importance in leading the shipping industry with the most advanced systems in the market. With sensitive products like avocados, shipments cannot be delayed. The ongoing port congestions continue to challenge the cold chain, driving many time-sensitive shipments to deviate their route to avoid jams and reach European destinations in time.
Unlike many other fruits, avocados are categorized as a sensitive “breathing” fruit that tend to ripen fast. ZIM positions its “smart” Controlled-Atmosphere containers, in order to manage the consistent air supply inside the container and ensure the fruit is kept fresh when it reaches its destination. It is in cases like these, that the advanced ZIMonitor™ system is also activated, and customers can enjoy the benefit of keeping an eye on their cargo 24/7.
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