Positive news for Israel’s avocado sector: the harvest season is opening with strong indicators, projecting exports of about 132,000 US tons—similar to last year—with prices expected to remain high. This stands in contrast to the mango sector, which collapsed after President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on imports from Brazil. Brazilian growers diverted their shipments to Europe, oversupplying the market, damaging Israeli exports, and driving consumer prices down to about $0.82 per pound.
Avocados avoided such tariffs, as most supply to the United States comes from Mexico. According to Eitan Zvi, CEO of Galilee Export—which manages about 40% of Israel’s avocado exports—the main reason for sustained success, despite boycott campaigns, is relentless global demand. Since being declared a “superfood” a decade ago, annual global consumption has jumped from 2.2 million US tons to 3.3 million US tons and continues climbing.
“As long as demand outpaces supply, market needs will override political considerations,” Zvi said. He acknowledged isolated boycotts in parts of Northern Europe, but noted that most retail chains continue purchasing Israeli avocados.
To maintain a year-round presence in international markets, Israeli growers are expanding abroad. Galil Export has established two farms in Peru spanning about 124 acres, ensuring supply to Europe outside Israel’s domestic harvest season. Meanwhile, Granot, in partnership with businessman Yaakov Shachar (Volvo’s Israeli importer), launched a massive 1,110-acre farm in Kenya, targeting annual exports of 11,000 US tons.
Global competition, however, is intensifying. Morocco boosted exports to Europe fivefold within five years (from 22,000 US tons to 110,000 US tons). Spain expanded output by 35% in two years. Colombia has emerged as a major player, offering cheaper but lower-quality fruit that undermines its long-term competitiveness in Europe.
Domestic growth is surging as well. Each year, Israeli farmers plant between 1,980 and 2,470 acres of new avocado groves, with the total now exceeding 37,000 acres. Technological upgrades also reinforce competitiveness. Amir Bachar, CEO of Avocado Gal, said a new $3.2 million sorting facility is coming online, featuring smart graders, high-resolution cameras, automated pallets, and upgraded sorting systems.
The supply chain faces heavy pressure from tariffs, global oversupply in related fruits, and new entrants, yet the combination of high demand, strategic international planting, and technology investments positions Israel’s avocado industry to remain resilient and competitive.