Analysis Of The Technical, Economic And Commercial Viability Of The Dehydrated Cape Gooseberry From Boyacá For Export To The European Union.

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the viability of producing and exporting dehydrated cape gooseberry from the department of Boyacá, Colombia, to the European Union. The research posits that dehydrating the fruit is a superior value-added strategy compared to fresh export, as it significantly extends the product's shelf life, simplifies its transportation logistics, and reduces post-harvest losses. As Colombia's main producing region, with a share of around 38% of the national total and a consolidated supply from producers with over a decade of experience, Boyacá has a solid capacity to sustain the project. On the commercial front, a robust and growing demand is identified in key European markets such as the Netherlands and Germany. This demand is driven by the global trend of consuming healthy and functional products, with a projected annual growth of 4.1% in the European market for dehydrated fruits. From a technical standpoint, the study evaluated different drying methods and selected hot air drying as the most suitable due to its optimal cost-benefit ratio, operational efficiency, and its ability to preserve the cape gooseberry's nutritional and organoleptic properties. The viability of this method was validated through a successful pilot test. Finally, the financial analysis projects exceptional profitability, with an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 92% and a Net Present Value (NPV) of COP $198 million, which demonstrates its attractiveness for investment. It is concluded that the project is technically, commercially, and financially viable, representing a strategic opportunity to strengthen the cape gooseberry's agro-industrial chain, generate a positive socioeconomic impact in Boyacá, and position a higher-value product in the competitive international market.