Colombia is becoming an increasingly attractive market for EU apple exporters
The EU apple campaign, ‘Have an apple day!’, will take part in one of Latin America’s leading agri-food trade events next month. Alimentec 2026, which takes place in Bogotá from 9-12 June, brings together key representatives of the food industry, including importers, distributors and horeca professionals.
Colombia is becoming an increasingly attractive market for international agri-food suppliers. According to Faostat, the country imported more than US$8.4bn in agricultural products in 2024, highlighting the key role of imports in meeting local demand.
This creates a growing opportunity for European apple exporters. Due to its climate, Colombia relies on imported apples, with supplies traditionally coming mainly from Southern Hemisphere countries. European producers, however, are steadily gaining ground in the market.
According to European Commission data, EU apple exports to Colombia are showing a clear upward trend. So far in the 2025/26 season, more than 25,400 tonnes of European-grown apples have been shipped to Colombia, surpassing the total for the entire 2024/25 season, which stood at 22,360 tonnes.
Growing demand amongst Colombian consumers for a more diverse fruit offer, along with the ongoing development of retail and foodservice channels, is fuelling sales of imported fruit. According to USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, Colombia’s foodservice sector generated around US$19bn in 2025, confirming its role as a key distribution channel for imported food.
This year’s edition of Alimentec will feature the EU co-financed information and promotional campaign “Have an apple day! Get to know high quality apples from EU”. The campaign highlights the strengths of EU apple production, including quality control, traceability and reliable supply.
“These are key advantages for importers, distributors and horeca partners looking for consistent, high-quality products,” the organisers of the campaign said.
At their expo stand, experts and representatives of the European fruit-growing sector will present the qualities of apples from the European Union. They will discuss their potential in the Colombian market and cooperation opportunities.
As part of its activities surrounding Alimentec, the campaign will also host a dedicated press event. It will offer a space for direct meetings with the media and showcase EU apples in an engaging culinary setting.
