“The new season of Ecuadorian mangoes, scheduled for the last quarter of 2026, is being prepared in a context marked by climatic uncertainty,” explains Bernardo Malo, president of the board of directors of the Mango del Ecuador Foundation. “Too hot temperatures compromise blooming. In addition to this, the lack of rain during traditionally wet months. We are experiencing a climatic anomaly, the conditions are not favorable for mango cultivation.”
Mangoes need cooler temperatures for optimum blooming. If the current high temperatures continue, production could face difficulties. Although it is still too early to make volume projections, the sector fears that 2026 may not be the normal year expected after the fluctuations of the last three seasons.
In 2025, domestic supply dropped. “There was a decrease in exports of at least 15 to 18%, while official statistics only show a decrease of 7 to 8%. The difference is due to a significant quantity of mangoes destined for Colombia being redirected to the United States, which compensated for the production contraction.”
“The United States continues to absorb over 90% of Ecuadorian mangoes. There is no overlap between Ecuador and Mexico in terms of production windows, allowing Ecuador to position itself when Mexico – the main supplier to the American market – is absent. However, there is indirect competition with Brazil and Peru, which overlap at the beginning and end of the season.”
The departure of Brazil from the American market in 2025 for tariff reasons had a mixed impact, according to Malo. “It reduced supply to the United States, but the market remains mainly demand-driven.”
“The price behavior in 2025 was favorable. Lesser saturation and orderly transitions between Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru helped maintain good results. The strengthening of the category in supermarkets also contributed, supported by the fact that 100% of Ecuadorian production is GlobalGAP certified.”
“Ecuador continues the path of diversification, but with limitations. Europe mainly demands non-fibrous varieties such as Kent, but climatic conditions do not allow for its optimal production. The national offer is based on Tommy Atkins, a fibrous variety, which is restrictive for European segments. Destinations like Canada, Chile, or Central America absorb some fruits but do not reach the consumption levels of the United States and Europe.”
After the 2025 campaign, Malo emphasizes an essential section: the need for organized, quality, properly sized, and traceable supply, primarily targeted at supermarket channels. According to him, the sector has reached maturity after three decades of professional exports. “The market’s evolution will depend on the climate and Ecuador’s ability to consistently serve its main destination, the United States.”
For more information: Bernardo Malo Mango del Ecuador Foundation Tel: +593 999252808 [email protected] www.mangoecuador.org”
