The banana sector is an important part of Colombia’s economy, generating approximately 293,648 direct and indirect jobs and contributing to 5.3% of Colombia’s agricultural GDP. Colombia is the world’s fifth largest banana exporter. Banana exports are a major source of foreign exchange for the country, helping finance imports of other foods. Bananas are produced in 23 of Colombia’s 32 departments, with Antioquia, Magdalena, and La Guajira focused on international markets. The largest banana-producing department is Antioquia, where most banana production is concentrated within the subregion of Urabá. The banana value chain is long and complex, involving many different actors, such as producers, state entities, financial institutions, producer associations and cooperatives, research centers, marketing companies, logistical service and input suppliers, and certification firms. The presence of Fusarium TR4 poses a significant threat to Colombia’s banana sector. This fungal disease could have a severe impact on the country’s economy and global banana supply. The Colombian government and banana industry are working together to prevent the spread of TR4. Some measures include strengthening biosecurity plans, conducting risk assessments, continuous monitoring, raising awareness among producers, and trying to develop TR4-resistant varieties of bananas.
Year of publication | |
Authors | |
Geographic coverage | Colombia |
Originally published | 27 Sep 2023 |
Related organisation(s) | CGIAR - Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers |
Knowledge service | Metadata | Global Food and Nutrition Security | Food security and food crises | BananaPest and diseaseValue chain analysis |