Banana monthly review: May 2023

May brought a large overall supply. The dollar origins were slightly up, to 5 % above the average, because of Ecuador’s comeback. The Colombian shortfall was once again readily offset. Costa Rica and Guatemala maintained high, stable levels. The French West Indies embarked on their shipments peak, with volumes suddenly increasing to in excess of 8 % above average for the season. Only Africa started on its seasonal fall, with a slight decrease in volumes, albeit they remained 5 % above average. Regarding demand, although temperatures were on the cool side, i.e. favourable for banana sales, the arrival of seasonal fruits on shelves, such as strawberries and melons, made itself felt. Hence green banana prices continued to drop, albeit they remained more than 18 % above average.