Peru's exports reached US$44.212 billion in 2017, up by 21.8% over the previous year, thus generating more than one million direct jobs nationwide, Foreign Trade and Tourism Ministry (Mincetur) reported Tuesday.
According to Minister Eduardo Ferreyros, Peru's export activity contributed to the creation of 1.154 million direct positions and a total of 2 million (direct and indirect)
jobs last year.
Inca shipments amounted to US$44.212 billion in 2017, increasing 21.8% over the previous year and exceeding the previous five years' results in terms of value, the government official noted.
It must be noted Peruvian products arrived in 181 markets in five continents last year.
Likewise, the cabinet member pointed out there are currently 7,849 exporting companies based in the Inca country, being
China the main importer.
Traditional and non-traditional
The Mincetur official also underlined this growth is mainly underpinned by the increase in
traditional shipments, which totaled US$32.5 billion (+27.5%).
It must be noted non-traditional sales abroad—which amounted to US$11.712 billion (+8.3%)— also contributed to said expansion.
Lastly, Ferreyros highlighted Peru is the world's top exporter of fresh asparagus, dried beans,
quinoa, and maca.
(END) ECS/JJN/JAA/MVB