Peru is boosting its growth in the main Asian markets by focusing on new trade openings, diversification of destinations, and improving its competitiveness. The country is seeking to increase the value of its exports of grapes, blueberries, avocados, mangoes, pecans, and Brazil nuts, taking full advantage of the sustained growth in demand in the region. According to data shared at Asia Fruit Logistica, the Asian continent is currently the third most important market for Peru, with prospects of further growth over the next two decades.
© Diana Sajami | FreshPlaza.com On the left, Gabriel Amaro, President of AGAP, with José Luis Gereda, President of Progranada Peru.
Gabriel Amaro, president of the Association of Peruvian Agricultural Producers' Guilds (AGAP), said that the sector's strategy is focused on strengthening its presence in Asia. "We have just opened the Indonesian market for our blueberries, and we are very close to doing the same in Japan. We have signed new protocols with China for the export of table grapes, pecans, and Brazilian nuts, among other products," he said. The Asian region, which currently imports around 80 billion dollars' worth of fruit and vegetables, represents a unique opportunity for the country, which is still shipping less than 1 billion dollars' worth of fresh produce to the region.
The AGAP president acknowledged that growth also requires a comprehensive strategy to avoid pressures on traditional markets. "When you become one of the three main exporters of a crop and continue to increase production, you run the risk of flooding the markets and driving prices down," he said. To deal with this situation, the sector has been promoting the expansion of production areas, the incorporation of new varieties, and the opening of more commercial destinations.
© AGAP
Infrastructure is another key element. In addition to the 23 irrigation projects under development, which will add up to 1.4 million hectares for agro-exports, Peru is also strengthening its logistics network. The port of Chancay will become a direct link with Asia, complementing the operation of terminals such as Callao, Paita, Paracas, and the future terminal of Eten in Lambayeque. "The port of Chancay is giving us a direct route to Asia and will increase our competitiveness," says Amaro.
The current political context is facilitating the consolidation of these initiatives. "After years of instability, the recent approval of a new agrarian law offers legal security and is encouraging investment, while also integrating small-scale agriculture into modern export chains. This legislation will boost production and broaden the producer base; an essential step towards sustained long-term growth," he said.
For more information:
Gabriel Amaro
AGAP
[email protected]
www.agapperu.org