The Ecuadorian pitahaya on the way to conquer the Asian market

Pitahaya, also known as dragon fruit, is a tropical fruit that is grown in several Latin American countries, including Ecuador. Since 2023, after the export of Ecuadorian pitahaya increased by 72%, thanks to the trade agreement signed with China, the product has experienced a true boom.

This agreement also brings about the elimination of the 20% tariff starting in May of this year. Now that the fruit has the required health authorization, Ecuador enters the market and is ready to compete.

Currently, the country has access to 56 export destinations, but the main one is the United States with an export value of 111.1 million dollars, which means 80.73% participation. In second place is Hong Kong with 8.8 million dollars and a 6.42% share. In South America, Peru is the only country to which Ecuador exports. Their numbers are 2.83% share and 3.9 million dollars.

This is why Ecuador has consolidated its position as the main exporter of pitahaya in the region, exporting 45,139 tons, equivalent to USD 137.7 million. between January and October 2023. This represents impressive growth of 134.06% in volume and a solid 69.46% in value compared to the same period of the previous year.

Spain and Canada are also on the list, but with lower values. The promotion that has been done and the good concept that exists around the properties that the pitahaya has has served to make the fruit at its maximum popularity. Also, the social context influences healthy food today.

In the provinces of Morona Santiago, Guayas, Manabí and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas of Ecuador, pitahaya is grown in its yellow and red variations. Around 15,000 families are dedicated to its production. The plans to further strengthen this export sector are very encouraging for 2024.