Food Delivery Boost, Berry Growth, Export Opportunities

DiDi Food aims to support SMEs by enhancing their platform presence and providing training and digital tools. Meanwhile, Mexico’s berry production grew by 8% in 2024, driven by technological innovations and drought-resistant crops.

This is the Week in Agribusiness!

Digital Platforms Boost Mexico’s Local Restaurants

DiDi Food launched the Sazon de Barrio initiative to support small culinary entrepreneurs by enhancing their platform presence and providing essential resources like training and digital tools. The initiative features a new app category, which promotes local establishments, and includes exclusive promotions to help these businesses reach new customers. With 71% of its listed businesses being local SMEs, DiDi Food aims to contribute to the economic growth of communities while improving the culinary diversity available to users on the platform.

Mexico’s Berry Production Reached 8% Growth in 2024

Mexico's berry production grew by 8% in 2024, overcoming challenges like drought and unfavorable exchange rates through technological innovations, revitalizing exports and supporting job creation across 22 states. The USDA forecasts Mexico’s berry production to reach 81,000t in 2024, surpassing US$3.9 billion in value, with 63,000 ha of crops providing high-paying jobs, especially for women. Technological advancements, including drought-resistant varieties and efficient irrigation systems, have helped companies like Berries Paradise reduce water usage and increase production, with a significant portion of exports going to the United States and other international markets.

Bosanet Helps Latin American Food Companies to Bring Down Export Barriers

Latin American food and beverage companies face significant export barriers, with only 0.9% able to reach international markets, but Bosanet is helping to change that by providing tools for successful US exports. In just one year, the platform expanded to 10 countries, assisting over 3,000 companies and 1,500 products with FDA approval, labeling, and connecting them to US buyers. Bosanet's technology-driven approach supports SMEs by offering personalized assistance, allowing brands to test the US market with smaller orders before scaling up, capitalizing on the growing demand for Latino flavors in the US.

Mexican Citrus Exports Surge as US Demand Increases

The US citrus market has experienced rising demand due to a significant decline in local production, particularly in Florida, creating an opportunity for Mexican exporters to fill the gap. Vit Citrus, a major exporter based near the US-Mexico border, has seen increasing demand for its citrus products, particularly from the United States, and benefits from logistical advantages due to its proximity. Despite challenges related to quality regulations and market requirements, the company remains optimistic, investing in innovations such as eco-friendly packaging and traceability software while anticipating growth in production and demand for organic citrus.

United States Halts Mexican Cattle Imports Over Screwworm Risk

Mexican authorities detected a case of screwworm in livestock at a Federal Verification and Inspection Point in Chiapas, leading the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to temporarily halt live cattle imports from Mexico as a precaution. The infected animal came from outside of Mexico, and the USDA's decision only affects live cattle, with other agricultural exports unaffected. Both countries are working together to resume normal trade, with Mexico's Ministry of Agriculture emphasizing that its preventive measures continue to protect livestock from screwworm.