Montana Fruits’ Mauricio Moranth joins board as exporter director and Juan Monsalve of LGS Specialty Sales becomes importer director
The Colombia Avocado Board (CAB) has announced its 2026/27 board of directors following its recent Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. The nine-member board includes newly elected and returning directors representing Colombia’s avocado exporters and US importers, bringing together industry expertise to support the continued development of Avocados from Colombia in the US market.
The board plays an integral role in providing strategic guidance, oversight, and direction for the organisation’s efforts to strengthen Colombia’s presence across US retail and foodservice channels. Directors generally serve two-year terms and may be re-elected to continue serving in subsequent terms.
Newly elected to the board of directors for 2026/27 include Mauricio Moranth, CAB exporter director from Montana Fruits and Juan Monsalve, CAB importer director from LGS Specialty Sales.
Kellen Newhouse, CAB chair and importer director from West Pak Avocado; Ricardo Uribe, CAB vice chair and exporter director from Cartama; and Katheryn Mejia, CAB director from Corpohass were all reelected for another term.
Elected to fill a vacant seat:
Dustin Hahn, CAB importer director from Naturipe Avocados, was elected by the importer association members to fill a vacant seat and will serve the remaining year of the term, through 2027.
Other continuing board members serving through 2027 include: Galen Johnson, CAB Secretary and importer director from Mission Produce; Sergio Plata, CAB treasurer and exporter director from Baika Fruit; and Ricardo Mejia, CAB exporter director from Fruty Green.
Together, CAB said the board members represent a broad range of perspectives across the avocado supply chain, helping guide its initiatives to expand market opportunities, build retailer relationships, and increase awareness of Colombian Hass avocados among US consumers.
“We are pleased to welcome Mauricio Moranth and Juan Monsalve to the Colombia Avocado Board,” said Manuel Michel, CAB’s managing director. “Both bring valuable industry perspectives and expertise that will complement the experience of our returning directors. As Colombia continues to strengthen its presence in the US market, this collective leadership will be instrumental in fostering industry collaboration, building stronger trade partnerships, and creating new opportunities for Avocados from Colombia.”
