Honduran Melon Exports Decline by 15.2% in 2024/25 Season
Honduran melon exports have seen a significant decline of 15.23% so far in the 2024/25 season, driven primarily by reduced production from one of the country’s key grower-exporters.
According to a report from the Central Bank of Honduras (BCH), melon exports reached 80,838 tonnes by February, down from 95,368 tonnes during the same period in 2024. This marks a decrease of 14,530 tonnes.
The decline in exports is mainly attributed to reduced plantings by Grupo Sol, a major Japanese-owned melon exporter. In October 2024, the company announced it would cut back production due to lower demand in the United States, the largest market for Honduran melons. Additional factors contributing to the reduction include rising production costs in comparison to other regional producers, as well as challenges related to electricity distribution and high tariffs.
For the first half of 2024, Honduran melon exports totaled 186,000 tonnes, valued at US$98.6 million. However, forecasts indicate that by June 2025, export volumes will drop to 158,000 tonnes, representing a shortfall of 28,000 tonnes.
Despite the decrease in volume, there has been a positive development in international prices. The average price per kilogram has risen from US$0.56 to US$0.67, which has helped offset the reduced export quantities. As a result, revenue for the first two months of 2025 amounted to US$54 million, slightly up from US$53.2 million during the same period in 2024.
Honduras currently has around 11,500 hectares dedicated to melon cultivation, with key varieties including Cantaloupe, Galia, and Honeydew. Exports are typically made between December and June each year.
