Banana Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is the global significance of bananas?
Bananas are one of the most consumed fruits globally and the 4th most important food product in least developed countries, a staple for ~400 million people.
Where do bananas rank in global agricultural trade?
Bananas are the 5th most traded agricultural commodity in the world.
How many tonnes of bananas were exported globally in 2013?
16.5 million tonnes.
What are the ideal conditions for banana cultivation?
Bananas thrive in hot, rainy tropical lowlands.
Which regions account for the majority of banana exports?
Latin America and the Caribbean, contributing ~80% of exports.
Who are the leading banana-exporting countries?
Ecuador (largest), Costa Rica, Colombia, Guatemala, Peru, Honduras.
Which countries in Asia and Africa export bananas?
Philippines in Asia; Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon in Africa.
Why is India not a major banana exporter?
India is the largest producer but mainly grows bananas for domestic consumption.
What environmental impacts are associated with banana farming?
High chemical use, deforestation, soil contamination, biodiversity loss, and 2 tonnes of waste per 1 tonne of bananas.
What chemical input ranking does banana farming have?
Second largest agrochemical input after cotton.
What trade pattern does banana export follow?
Developing countries export low-value primary goods to richer countries.
Who are the main banana importers?
The EU and USA, each consuming about 27% of global exports.
How much of the final retail price of bananas stays in rich countries?
About 90%, mostly with retailers.
Which TNCs historically dominated the banana market?
Chiquita, Dole, Del Monte, and Fyffes.
What was the Lomé Convention?
An agreement (1975) giving ACP countries preferential access to EU markets.
What did the Geneva Banana Agreement (2012) do?
Phased out preferential tariffs on Latin American bananas, ending a 20-year trade dispute.
Why do Caribbean and African producers struggle to compete?
They face challenges from larger, cheaper Latin American producers.
What is meant by a ‘race to the bottom’ in banana trade?
Plantations move to countries with lower labor costs and weaker regulations.
What labor issues do banana plantation workers face?
Poor working conditions, casual employment, and low wages.
How does fair trade benefit banana producers?
Supports smaller producers and addresses environmental and social issues.
What is the role of ethical consumerism in banana trade?
It is a growing but still niche market, especially in wealthier countries.
