Diversification and Revealed Comparative Advantage of Global Strawberry Exports, 2019–2023

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze the diversification and revealed comparative advantage of global strawberry exports during the period 2019–2023. A quantitative methodology was employed, consisting of the collection and processing of export data obtained from Trade Map and the UN Comtrade Data Base, utilizing the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index to measure market concentration and the Balassa Index to assess the revealed comparative advantage. The results indicated that while Mexico exhibited a high concentration, relying almost exclusively on the United States market, Spain demonstrated a moderate dispersion by alternating between destinations such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. In contrast, the United States displayed a balanced distribution among its main destinations, and the Netherlands, together with Belgium, manifested intermediate patterns, albeit with some volatility in their competitive indicators. It was concluded that an excessive dependency on one or a few destinations generated vulnerabilities in the face of international fluctuations, as opposed to the stability derived from adequate diversification. Consequently, it was recommended that trade authorities and strategic stakeholders implement policies aimed at gradually opening new markets, strengthening the product’s image, and adopting technological innovations to mitigate risks and foster sustainable growth in the agro-export sector.