International demand for Peruvian coffee and cacao remained strong during the first seven months of the year, recording significant growth in exports.
However, challenges remain that must be addressed to consolidate their presence in the global market, Peruvian Exporters' Association (Adex) Coffee and Cacao Committee Chairman Jose Antonio Mejia indicated.
At a meeting organized by the association on the occasion of International Coffee Day (October 1) and Peruvian Cacao-Chocolate Day (since 2011), the leader warned about the need to comply with the European Union's Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products.
The regulation will take effect next December, although it could be postponed for another year.
"These crops are mainly grown in the jungle and are subject to various regulations that can affect the competitiveness of the supply chain," Mejia stated.
"It is necessary to promote private investment in these areas to generate formal and decentralized employment," he added.
Likewise, the chairman underscored the importance of strengthening the cooperation among small producers so that they can receive training and comply with the requirements of the new EU regulatory framework.
Exports on the rise
According to figures from ADEX's Agro-Exports Management Department, shipments of cacao and its derivatives totaled US$865.28 million between January and July of this year, representing a 41% increase compared to the same period in 2024 (US$615.22 million).
Cacao beans were the main shipped product (US$518.22 million), accounting for 60% of the total. Butter, paste, powder, chocolates, and nibs were also shipped.
The main destinations were the United States, the Netherlands, Belgium, Mexico, and Spain.
In the case of coffee, exports reached US$484.79 million, a 22% increase compared to 2024 (US$396.90 million).
Conventional coffee amounted to US$398.37 million and organic coffee totaled US$86.41 million.
Most of it was un-roasted and non-decaffeinated coffee (US$483.35 million), shipped to the United States, Germany, Belgium, Canada, and Colombia.
Although export volumes fell by 32% due to climatic events (drought at the end of 2024 followed by heavy rains), the FOB value continued to rise thanks to the global increase in coffee and cacao prices.
Event with producers and companies
The celebration included a showroom, tasting, pairing, and the presentation of the production chain route.
Participating companies—Amazonas Trading, Romex, Ecoandino, Cacaosuyo, and Campoverde—showcased the potential of these products in the international market.
Data
Coffee, cacao, and their derivatives had a prominent presence at the most recent edition of Expoalimentaria 2025 fair.