Fresh Del Monte Chairman and CEO Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh has warned of a potential global banana shortage linked to the spread of plant diseases and the effects of climate change. Speaking on 30 July during the company's second-quarter results call, he said he had been predicting an "industry-wide" problem for years, adding that "the causes are clear."
Abu-Ghazaleh cited two fungal diseases as primary concerns: Black Sigatoka (Black Leaf Streak Disease) and Fusarium, also known as Tropical Race 4 (TR4). Black Sigatoka, caused by Pseudocercospora fijiensis, affects bananas and plantains by damaging leaves, while Fusarium is a soil-borne pathogen that attacks the roots, leading to Banana Fusarium Wilt by clogging the plant's vascular system.
"Shifting climate patterns, particularly warmer temperatures combined with humidity, are accelerating the spread of disease in key growing regions, primarily Black Sigatoka," Abu-Ghazaleh said. "On top of that, a continued spread of Fusarium, well known as Tropical Race 4, is adding further pressure." He noted that Black Sigatoka is impacting crops across Central America, with some countries facing the compounded effects of both diseases.
Abu-Ghazaleh said Fresh Del Monte's R&D teams have been working on solutions, with field testing of TR4-resistant gene-edited banana lines expected to begin in the coming months. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) describes TR4 as "one of the most aggressive and destructive fungi in the history of agriculture" and the greatest threat to global banana production, with potential impacts on the food security and livelihoods of around 400 million people.
The CEO added that "global demand for bananas remains strong as they continue to be one of the most affordable and accessible fruits in the grocery aisle." He also said that Costa Rica's banana export volume is currently down more than 20% due to Sigatoka disease and other soil and climate issues, and warned, "I don't see that this is going away. This is getting worse as a matter of fact."
Outside of bananas, Abu-Ghazaleh reported that Fresh Del Monte has entered the Middle East market with its Pink Glow pineapple in the UAE, describing it as part of a strategy to expand high-value products into new international markets.
For the six months to 27 June 2025, the company posted net sales of US$2.28 billion, up 1.3% year-on-year, with fresh and value-added products up 2.9% to US$1.41 billion. Global banana sales were stable at US$773.7 million. Operating profit rose 0.9% to US$113.2 million, and net income increased 12.5% to US$89.3 million. Full-year sales are expected to grow by 2%.
Source: JustFood