Honduras'  banana exports this year are estimated to have reached nearly US$400 million dollars in what will be a record season for the industry, website Elheraldo.hn reported.

The figure is the highest amount Honduras has earnt with its banana exports in the last 10 years.

Bananas are the second most important export after coffee for the country's economy.

Exports from January to September this year showed a 27% year-on-year increase at US$297 million dollars.

The increase in income was due to the international price of bananas rising by 19.5% - the price per box of 40 lbs increased from US$12.56 to US$15.02.

The U.S. is Hondura's chief importer and exports to this market have also showed an increase.

Back in 1993 Honduras was the largest banana exporter in the world but its position changed following the E.U. decision to impose tariffs on Latin American bananas to favor former colonies in Asia, Pacific and Caribbean.

Photo: Flickr, Ian Ransley

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