The Washington Apple Commission stated that it was working on the new promotion of two apple varieties in the Colombian market to meet that market's growing demand for this fruit. Alejandro Diaz, Country Manager of FTA International (Representative of the Washington Apple Commission in Colombia) said the two varieties were the Golden Delicious and Cripps Pink.
Golden Delicious, a variety native to the state of West Virginia, is a crisp apple with a tender yellow skin and flesh that remains white for a long time after being cut. The Cripps Pink apple is a variety of Australian origin appreciated by snack manufacturers and bakers for its slightly sour taste and crisp, firm pulp. The variety was introduced to the market in 1985 and gets its name from its bright pink color.
These varieties will receive a new promotional focus in Colombia, where consumers prefer Washington apples over the fruits from Chile, France, Italy, Spain, or Portugal.
According to the Commission, it is a bet so that the demand grows based on new options. It will also help consumers improve their diets, as these are closely linked to the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
Exports on the rise
US apple producers export 10 to 15 million dollars to the Colombian market a year. “Approximately 8,500 tons were sold in 2019. As of September 2020, we already had exported 10,300 tons, which represents an increase of 21%, and we hope to close the year with a growth of 30%,” stated Alejandro Diaz.
According to data from the Commission, Bogota, Cali, Medellin, and Barranquilla are the cities with the highest consumption. The most extensive distribution and storage centers are located in these cities.
