- Global banana prices remained mixed to firm in Q1’26, as higher export availability improved supply but rising freight risks restricted any major downward movement.
- Upstream costs stayed under pressure from fertilizer, fuel, farm logistics, and shipping, with the Iran war and Strait of Hormuz closure raising transport and insurance risks.
- Downstream demand remained steady from retail and foodservice sectors, mainly in Europe and North America, while buyers continued to avoid excessive stocking.
During Q1’26, global banana prices showed a mixed-to-firm trend as higher logistics costs and regional supply disruptions outweighed the pressure from improved exports in some origins. The Iran war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz increased freight, insurance, and vessel-delay risks, which raised landed cost pressure for long-distance banana shipments, especially into import-dependent markets. Upstream conditions were uneven, with weather stress, plantation disruptions, and ripening-related operating costs affecting availability from several producing countries. Brazil exported around 6,000 tons of bananas in January 2026, indicating a steady South American supply at the start of the quarter. In March 2026, Brazil shipped around 7,000 tons, showing improved export movement after February’s slowdown and easing some supply tightness. Downstream demand from supermarkets, foodservice buyers, and fruit distributors remained stable, but high logistics costs reduced bulk procurement.