World Avocado Organization Discusses Industry Challenges

The global avocado industry is recovering from the challenges posed by the El Niño phenomenon, according to Zac Bard, chairman of the World Avocado Organization (WAO). Nearly 90% of avocado-growing regions were affected, but the crop has shown resilience. With Peru's harvest season ending, South Africa's record crop will help balance supplies, while new growth opportunities arise from increasing production in several African nations. However, the industry faces hurdles, including negative publicity regarding environmental impacts, which WAO is addressing through a successful myth-busting campaign. In the U.S. market, Peruvian and Californian supplies are tied at 25% each, while Europe continues to rely heavily on Peruvian avocados, which account for nearly 90% of shipments. As avocado consumption surges in the U.S., concerns about water shortages and cartel violence in Mexico highlight the complex dynamics of avocado sourcing.