Ensuring a steady and timely supply of bananas to import markets requires highly efficient logistics across global trade routes. However, due to the high export volumes and the strategic location of production zones near major ports, banana trade routes are increasingly vulnerable to criminal network seeking to smuggle illicit drugs into consumer markets worldwide.

This session will examine the impact of this criminal exploitation on the global banana value chain and the steps taken so far to tackle it. Key discussion points will include the security risks and operational challenges faced by banana producers and exporters, the responsibilities and roles of trading companies and shipping lines in mitigating these risks, and the increased pressures on port authorities and customs agencies in importing countries.

By bringing together a diverse set of experts from both exporting and importing countries, the panel aims to highlight practical measures and emerging cooperative frameworks designed to enhance security and transparency in banana supply chains. Ultimately, the event seeks to promote collaborative action and shared responsibility among stakeholders to effectively address the challenges posed by illicit trafficking within the banana industry.

Moderator:

• Mr. Victor Prada, Secretary, World Banana Forum (WBF) Secretariat

Proposed panelists:

• H.E. Danilo Palacios, Minister, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Ecuador
• José Antonio Hidalgo, Executive Director, Association of Banana Exporters of Ecuador (AEBE)
• Emerson Aguirre, President, Association of Banana Growers of Colombia (AUGURA)
• José Francisco Zuñiga, President Association of Banana Growers of Magdalena and La Guajira (ASBAMA)
• Giovanny Achury, Colonel, Directorate of Ports and Airports of the Anti-Narcotics Police of Colombia
• Domingo Chinea, President, Port Authority of Santa Marta, Colombia
• Ingrid Vanstreels, Manager of Key Accounts, Port Authority of Antwerp-Bruges