The Fungus Threatening Banana—And Its Global Supply
The TR4 fungus has been detected in Ecuador, the top global banana exporter, posing a significant threat to the industry.
No cure exists for the TR4 strain of Panama disease, which affects the Cavendish variety of bananas. The industry is under pressure, with rising costs pushing towards diversification.
In late September 2025, Ecuador announced the detection of the TR4 strain, sending alarm through the global banana industry. As the world's top banana exporter, shipping nearly six million metric tons in 2023, about one-third of global trade, the country's health alert has heightened concern over potential disruptions to the trade.
A Persistent and Spreading Threat
TR4 is the fourth strain of the Fusarium fungus, which lives in the soil and chokes banana plants by preventing them from absorbing nutrients.
No cure exists for the TR4 strain of Panama disease.
Author's summary: TR4 fungus threatens global banana supply.
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