Colombia Consolidates as the World’s Leading Goldenberry Producer and Exporter

Colombia has firmly established itself as the world's leading producer and exporter of goldenberry, a unique fruit that ranks fifth among the most traded fresh fruits internationally. In 2024, the sector achieved a record in foreign sales, surpassing $43.5 million and exporting over 8,500 net tons across nearly 25 countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, the United States, and Canada.

This growth is fueled by an average annual increase of nearly 9%, driven by traceability standards, international sustainability and food safety certifications.

The goldenberry production chain significantly contributes to socioeconomic development and agricultural dynamism in Colombian departments such as Cundinamarca, Boyaca, Antioquia, Narino, and Santanderes. Over 1,500 small producer families, each managing less than two hectares, are directly involved in this sector. A significant portion of production costs, particularly in manual harvesting and post-harvest stages, goes towards labor, with a notable focus on women who are household heads.

Processing and transforming the fruit within the country play a crucial role in local economies. Around 40% of agricultural production is allocated to manufacturing high-quality fresh fruit, dehydrated products, jams, pastry-making ingredients, and gourmet products. This diversification not only boosts domestic consumption of this superfood but also generates employment for thousands of families in rural areas.

The nutritional properties of goldenberry, including high levels of vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and metabolites that positively interact with insulin signaling pathways, support its growing global reputation. Scientific studies from institutions like Agrosavia, the Industrial University of Santander (UIS), and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) have highlighted these health benefits, showing regular consumption can help regulate blood glucose levels and prevent diabetes and obesity.

Established in June 2014, the Analdex Goldenberry Exporters Committee has been instrumental in driving the sector's growth strategy. By working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Trade, ICA, ProColombia, and international authorities like APHIS, the committee has secured key permits for seaports in Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Santa Marta, opened new international markets, and implemented rigorous plant health protocols and the use of bio-inputs.

This collaborative effort has bolstered the goldenberry's position as a flagship fruit for Colombia, promising to further enhance the rural economy, add value to the country's agri-food supply chain, and ensure the sustainability of thousands of farming families.