Avocado Shipments Decline Amid Holiday Demand Fluctuations

Declining Avocado Shipments

News Summary

As the holiday season begins, avocado shipments worldwide are experiencing a decline. In the U.S., shipments dropped by 27% during the last week of December, largely due to demand fluctuations. Similarly, shipments to Europe decreased by 21%, and China faced a 24% decline in imports. While Chile saw a 27% drop in weekly shipments, it also reported a 93% growth in annual shipments. Despite these challenges, avocado enthusiasts can remain hopeful for a rebound in the market as we move into 2025.

Avocado Shipments Take a Dip: A Season of Change!

As we roll into 2025, the world of avocados is experiencing some hefty ups and downs, thanks to the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Exports have taken a noticeable hit, leaving many avocado lovers wondering what’s going on with their favorite green fruit.

U.S. Market Shakes Things Up

In the United States, avocado shipments dropped a staggering 27% during the last week of December (week 52). It seems that the end-of-year celebrations have interrupted the steady stream of deliveries we usually expect. This timing might come as a surprise, especially since avocados are a popular addition to holiday gatherings and meals.

A whopping 94% of all avocado shipments to the U.S. originated from Mexico. So, as holiday festivities caused demand to fluctuate, the impact on our green friends was felt right away. Considering the reduced volumes, prices for larger avocado sizes also spiked, reaching $72.5 for a 25-pound box, which is pretty unusual for this time of year!

Europe Experiences Changes, Too

21%, with significant contributions coming from growers in Israel and Colombia. Interestingly, while prices for smaller avocados remained stable, large avocado sizes saw a drop, reflecting a 10% decrease. It seems everyone is feeling the pinch as shipments slow down.

China’s Market Faces Setbacks

24% compared to the week before. Many industry experts believe this is a temporary setback, and we can expect a recovery in the coming days. Fingers crossed for those tasty avocados to return to grocery shelves soon!

Chile Shows Mixed Results

27% drop in weekly avocado shipments, yet, in a twist of good news, the country saw an impressive 93% growth in annual shipments compared to the same time last year. This indicates that while the current week might be rocky, the long-term trend is looking optimistic for Chilean avocados.

The Future of the Avocado Market

In conclusion, while the holiday season has caused a noticeable shift in avocado shipments globally, there is reason to stay hopeful. Avocado enthusiasts might need to brace themselves for some price changes, but as always, this beloved fruit is an essential part of many tables. Whether you enjoy it on toast, in a salad, or as guacamole for that next gathering, avocados are here to stay, even if the roads of supply chain are a bit bumpy right now.