Production systems of Hass avocado among small-scale Colombian farmers: assessment and strategies for strengthening sustainable integration into export markets

Introduction Colombia’s Hass avocado sector has grown rapidly, yet smallholders face unequal access to technology, certification, and export channels. Understanding the determinants of sustainable practice adoption is key to inclusive competitiveness and compliance with international standards. Methods We analyzed a cross-sectional survey of n = 3,867 small-scale Hass avocado producers across 18 departments (2023–2024). Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were followed by four binary logistic regressions on adoption outcomes: organic fertilizer, chemical fertilizer, irrigation systems, and soil analysis. Explanatory variables included structural (area, crop age), socio-geographical (on-farm residence, distance to town), certification (GAP, GlobalG.A.P., export), and management practices (organic matter, biofertilizers, biostimulants). Odds ratios (OR) and 95% CIs were computed; robustness checks included pseudo-R² and AUC. Spatial heterogeneity was explored via department-level estimates. Results Export certification strongly predicted chemical-fertilizer use (OR = 6.81; 95% CI [4.33, 10.70]). GAP certification was positively associated with soil analysis (OR = 5.44; 95% CI [3.83, 7.73]). Biostimulant use increased the likelihood of organic-fertilizer adoption (OR = 5.41; 95% CI [3.81, 7.67]), suggesting complementary adoption. Distance to the nearest town consistently reduced adoption probabilities, whereas on-farm residence increased engagement with sustainable practices. Marked interdepartmental differences reflected institutional density and market linkages. Discussion Findings highlight certification ecosystems and proximity as catalysts of sustainable technology adoption among smallholders, while geographic isolation remains a barrier. Policy should prioritize localized extension, facilitated certification and traceability, and infrastructure to reduce spatial exclusion. Strengthening cooperative networks and targeted finance can further align environmental stewardship with export competitiveness.