Chiquita Brands International’s director warns that bananas could become more expensive in 2027 amid extreme weather and wars

Bananas could become more expensive in 2027, after the El Niño weather phenomenon and geopolitical conflicts increased production and transport costs, warns Carlos Lopez Flores, director of Chiquita Brands International, one of the world’s largest banana traders.

The company anticipates a difficult end to 2026 and start to 2027 for the sector, with lower production and higher prices. Suppliers in Latin America, the main banana-exporting region, are facing extreme weather conditions and logistical problems.

Heavy rains are expected in Ecuador and Peru, which could cause flooding, plant diseases, and the destruction of crops and roads. At the same time, drought is affecting the Amazon basin and northeastern Brazil. Ecuador, the world’s largest banana supplier, is among the countries most exposed.

Fuel, fertilizer, and packaging costs have already risen because of the conflict in the Middle East. Chiquita is already negotiating contracts for next year, with discussions focusing on supply security and additional costs.

Bananas have remained among the cheapest food products for years, but low margins and long-term contracts limit suppliers’ ability to absorb the new expenses.