Colombian agricultural exports to Canada have risen significantly since a free trade agreement (FTA) was implemented between the two nations in 2011. 

In a release, Colombian export promotion agency ProColombia highlighted an 88% rise from US$24 million to US$45 million between 2011 and 2015.

"With the growing trade relationship between Colombia and Canada, Canadian consumers receive Colombian products of quality and added value," said ProColombia president María Claudia Lacouture.

"Using the agreement allows for the strengthening of the export business fabric."

The report mentioned 166 Colombian agricultural companies had exported to the North American nation since the FTA was implemented.

The release pointed to goldenberries, also known as physalis, as an attractive export proposition for the Canadian market.

According to TradeMap data, the fruit sells at around US$2.40 per kilogram (2.2 pounds) in Canada. The small fruit has zero tariffs for entering the market, as a result of the FTA. 

ProColombia mentioned nutritional content and freshness were two requirements demanded by Canadian consumers when it came to exotic foods.

ProColombia said Canada was the country that imported the most Colombian golden berries in the Americas, followed by Brazil and the United States, while it was also the fourth-largest buyer of the fruit worldwide. 

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