Peru looks to export expansion

Peruvian producers are looking to expand their product range on the export market.

Prompex, the Peruvian export promotion institute, was at Fruit Logistica to promote the country’s offering of more than 300 types of fruits and vegetables.

Agriculture is playing an increasingly important part in the country’s economy. Eduardo Talavera, Prompex’s agricultural expert, said: “Last year, for the first time, the agricultural sector became the second most important export industry in Peru, behind mining.”

Excluding coffee and cotton, Peru’s exports are now worth $1.7 billion. Asparagus continues to be the most important product and is cultivated throughout the year. However there has also been an upsurge in sales of mangos, avocados, grapes, citrus fruit and organic bananas.

“However, we intend to achieve a further diversification of our exports - with fresh artichokes, papayas, water melons and sugarsnap peas,” added Talavera. “This is an expanding sector for which we need a good platform, so this will definitely necessitate a larger stand area next year.”