COLOMBIA

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

USA pears were not available during November because importers continue quoting Northwest pears, they mentioned suppliers have not responded yet, even when they now price in origin is high, there is an opportunity for high quality pears in the Colombian market.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

Is not expected any issue related to logistics or freight in the market.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

Importers foreseen a good opportunity for USA pears in the market due its quality, even when the price could be high, but due the low quality of Chilean and Argentinean pears, consumers would be open for a high-quality product. Anjous in medium and high sizes could be a good option.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Pears from Chile reported the highest volumes in the Colombian market, importers continue importing this origin to supply the wholesale and retail sector, they comment that they will continue importing this origin during the next month to supply the Christmas season. At wholesale level, Chilean pears reported a 60% pear market share. While at retail level reported 60% in supermarket stores and 58% at traditional channels; sales and quality were reported as good during this month. Domestic pears reported an increase in volumes in the market, during this period reported a 30% pear market share in the wholesale sector. At retail level, Domestic pears reached a pear market share of 30% in supermarket stores and 37% in traditional channels; good sales and quality were reported. Volumes of Domestic pears are expected to remain at the same level for the next month, trade members will continue handling this origin during the Christmas season. Pears from Argentina reported 10% pear market share in the wholesale sector, at retail level, this origin reached a 10% in supermarket stores and 5% traditional channels; sales and quality were reported as good during this period. Volumes are expected to remain at the same level during the next month, due importers will receive more loads.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

No political or economic issues are expected that could impact imports, retail or consumers behavior.