New Directors Join Colombia Avocado Board The Colombia Avocado Board (CAB) announced its 2026–2027 Board of Directors following its Annual Meeting on October 14 in Orlando, Florida. The nine-member board includes newly elected and returning directors representing Colombia's avocado exporters and U.S. importers.
Leadership Lineup Mauricio Moranth of Montana Fruits and Juan Monsalve of LGS Specialty Sales were newly elected to the board for the 2026–2027 term. Kellen Newhouse of West Pak Avocado was re-elected as Chair, while Ricardo Uribe of Cartama returns as Vice Chair. Katheryn Mejia of Corpohass was also re-elected. Dustin Hahn of Naturipe Avocados was elected to fill a vacant importer seat and will serve through 2027. Continuing board members include Galen Johnson of Mission Produce (Secretary), Sergio Plata of Baika Fruit (Treasurer), and Ricardo Mejia of Fruty Green.
Strategic Direction Directors generally serve two-year terms and provide strategic oversight for CAB's efforts to strengthen Colombia's presence across U.S. retail and foodservice channels. The board represents perspectives across the avocado supply chain and guides initiatives to expand market opportunities and increase awareness of Colombian Hass avocados among U.S. consumers. "We are pleased to welcome Mauricio Moranth and Juan Monsalve to the Colombia Avocado Board," said Manuel Michel, Managing Director of the Colombia Avocado Board. "Both bring valuable industry perspectives and expertise that will complement the experience of our returning directors. As Colombia continues to strengthen its presence in the U.S. market, this collective leadership will be instrumental in fostering industry collaboration, building stronger trade partnerships, and creating new opportunities for Avocados from Colombia." CAB works in partnership with the Hass Avocado Board (HAB) and was certified by USDA in January 2020 under the Hass Avocado Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 2000.
Why It Matters
For U.S. retailers and foodservice operators, this leadership transition signals CAB's continued commitment to supply chain stability and collaborative partnerships. Colombia's year-round avocado availability positions it as a complementary source during domestic off-season periods—a factor the board will likely emphasize in trade discussions.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
