Tropical fruits are an important source of income, at both the farm and export levels, for most of the producing developing countries. However, in terms of exports, tropical fruits are relatively new to import markets, and therefore suggested actions include quality improvement, appropriate packaging, the identification and development of new markets, market promotion and the investment in appropriate technology and infrastructure to meet the sanitary and phytosanitary requirements of import markets. In the following sections these actions have been grouped into categories, which the Sub-Group considers necessary to improve the economic viability and sustainability of the world tropical fruits economy. A major strategy to increase the viability and sustainability of the global tropical fruit economy would be through the expansion in demand, particularly in new and potential growth markets. A larger demand base would translate into higher returns to producers and exporters.
Transparency is necessary to reduce market distortions.
Apart from the dissemination of timely market information and intelligence on supply, demand and prices, there is a need to conduct market research in order to better understand the structure and functioning of existing, new, and potential growth markets. There is also a need to better understand distribution channels and to find ways to minimize physical marketing and trading risks. Measures to support these objectives would include the development of quality standards and grading, and the improvement of collection and warehousing systems. In an increasingly competitive environment, the development and implementation of new technologies and farm management practices are of paramount importance to improve productivity and quality and thus to better meet market requirements. In addition, to meet phytosanitary requirements of import markets, particularly as the traditional fumigation with methyl bromide is being phased out, alternative cost-effective treatments must be identified and appropriate infrastructure constructed.