The avocado is a fruit native to Central and South America. Cultivated for thousands of years in Mexico and parts of Central America, it was called "ahuacatl" by the Aztecs. Evidence of its use goes back to around 5000 BC, and the fruit began to gain wider popularity after Spanish explorers introduced it to Europe in the 16th century. Today it is known for its fat profile and nutritional value and has become a common ingredient in many cuisines.

Avocado has become a significant export crop, shipped to markets across North America, Europe and Asia, and demand has risen alongside interest in healthier eating. The United States accounts for roughly 40 percent of world avocado imports, followed by European Union countries such as the Netherlands (11.71 percent) and France (7.20 percent). Türkiye is a net importer: between 2017 and 2021 its average export unit value was USD 1,660 per tonne against an average import value of USD 718 per tonne.

Domestic production is concentrated in the south — roughly 75 to 80 percent in Antalya, 15 to 20 percent in Mersin and 2 to 5 percent in other provinces, mainly Muğla and Hatay. Both Fuerte and Hass varieties are grown. Türkiye exported about 6 percent of its total production in 2021, with Ukraine and the Russian Federation as the main destinations — a concentration that leaves continuity exposed to disruption in that corridor.

For buyers, the practical questions are variety and calibre, dry matter content at harvest, whether the fruit ships ready to eat or under controlled ripening, and which party carries the cold chain. Avocado is unforgiving of temperature breaks, and most disputes in this trade begin there.

Contact us for your avocado trade needs.