10.8% Increase in Sales Marks Highest Volume Since 1999
In 2023, banana sales in Madeira experienced an increase of 10.8% compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 25.2 thousand tons. This surge of 2.5 thousand tons is the highest volume sold since 1999, as reported by the Regional Directorate of Agriculture (DRA).
Notably, the extra class of bananas saw significant growth in 2023, with a remarkable increase of 15.2%, reaching a total of 21.4 thousand tons. This category accounted for 84.7% of the total banana sales, marking a historic peak. In comparison to 2022, classes I and II witnessed declines of -6.7% and -12.3%, respectively.
More Than 85% of Bananas Are Exported
The distribution pattern of the bananas highlights that 85.7% were shipped, primarily to mainland Portugal, while the remaining 14.3% was sold in the regional market. This distribution barely altered from the previous year, where 85.0% was shipped to mainland Portugal.
Most Bananas Sold in September
Examining monthly trends, September 2023 recorded the highest banana sales volume at 3.3 thousand tons, while February marked the lowest at 1.0 thousand tons. Notably, October and September experienced the most significant year-on-year increases, at +33.4% and +24.2%, respectively. Conversely, February, December, and March were the only months in 2023 that saw decreases in sales, recording drops of -21.2%, -8.6%, and -5.4%, respectively.
Banana Classes Explained
ll three classes of bananas are of sound quality and suitable for consumption. However, there are some key differences between the classes in terms of appearance and permissible defects.
Extra class bananas are of the highest quality and must meet the strictest requirements. They must be free of defects, except very slight superficial defects.
Class 1 bananas are of good quality and must be characteristic of the variety. They may have slight defects in shape and color, and slight skin defects due to rubbing and other superficial defects.
Class 2 bananas are of sound quality and must be at least 14 cm long and 2.7 cm in diameter. They may have a few blemishes, but they must not affect the flesh of the fruit.
Source RTP Madeira
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