Chiquita stand Fruit Logistica Delafair

Chiquita Brands International has released a statement confirming its move from the Port of New Orleans to the Port of Gulfport, a change that is set to take place in August.

Andrew Biles, chief executive for bananas and pineapples at the fresh produce giant, said the move would help Chiquita serve its customers more efficiently.

'We are pleased to return our port operations to Gulport where our Chiquita ripening and distribution facilities are located,' he explained.

'We believe that Gulfport is optimally situated to service our customers most efficiently with both north and southbound vessel services,' Biles added.