The latest figures in the USDA report show that production in 2001 rose to 113,000tonnes. In 1995, it stood at 55,431t. Exports are forecast to reach 8,000t this year. The rise is dramatic as growers in the country's central Pacific coast valley look to grape as an alternative high value export crop with the UK the second market behind the US. As a result, area under production is increasing year on year: by 20 per cent in 2001 compared to 2000.

The harvest runs from November to mid-January giving Peru a valuable if narrow window ahead of the Chilean harvest. The main varieties being grown are in line with market demands in the EU and US: Red Globe, Flame Seedless, Thompson Seedless and Ribier.

The climate is said to be ideal and where irrigation systems are well developed, yields are high.

Growers have organised themselves to form an association: Pro Vid which addresses issues of common concern such as marketing, trade policy and plant health.

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