In just 3 years, Lebanon has turned from a regional exporter of avocados into an international player in Europe, especially Ukraine, Germany and the Netherlands. 

Avocado exports to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have grown manifold but this is not all. Shipments to Europe shot up from just 40 tonnes in 2020 to 1000 tonnes in 2023.

This echoes a revenue boom from Lebanon’s avocado exports, which rose from $10 million in 2020 to $15 million in 2023.

Of the total 9,000 tonnes of avocados that the country exported mostly to MENA in 2023, 11% went to Europe.

The above small portion has high value potential, however. The Lebanese season is at its peak before summer when Peru’s supplies cause a price lull in Europe. Thus, Lebanon has a chance to exploit high prices in the December to May export window. 

Organic Avocados from Lebanon

Lebanon could also exploit the uptick “organic avocado” demand in Germany and Nordic countries where these sell 25-45% above standard prices.

Ideally, avocados in Lebanon grow in the mild climate of the Mediterranean coast, which promotes natural growth.

Besides, the Levant nation has adopted international certifications for sustainable farming practices.  This underpins the reigning European demand for Lebanon’s supplies which often meet the maximum residue levels (MRLs) of 0.01 mg/kg.

Prices in Europe

Even for non-organic types, avocado prices in Europe also tend to be more lucrative than in other world markets. In times of low supplies, wholesale prices of imported avocados can reach EUR 14 ($15.31) per 4kg box. 

In normal times, the wholesale price tends to be at least EUR 8 ($8.75) per 4kg box. The most stable price per kilogram is usually around EUR 2.50 ($2.73).

Importers pass on 8% of their costs to retailers, who in turn sell them for EUR 1.10 ($1.20) apiece. The avocado price in Germany for instance in early March 2024 was EUR 3.10 ($3.39) per kg. This at a time when Peru is yet to create a market surplus starting April. 

Sometimes during times of ample supplies, retailers can even sell a pair for as little as EUR 1.49 ($1.63). 

The above illustrates the price advantage for importers of avocados from Lebanon during the low-supply timing in Europe.

In a word, Lebanon is gradually conquering the European avocado market, and the more recent conquests include France and the UK.