Peruvian agricultural products are increasing their presence in the Swiss market and have a growth potential thanks to tariff preferences, Switzerland's Ambassador to Peru Markus-Alexander Antonietti pointed out.
According to the diplomat, both nations rely on a free trade agreement titled
European Free Trade Association (
EFTA), which has been offering the best deal for Peru's processed agricultural products since 2011.
"In recent years, several Peruvian agricultural products have been progressively increasing their offer in my country, and [that is why] we often see
Peruvian products lately," he underlined.
"My country has probably the highest purchasing power in the world. Besides, it is a world leader in per capita consumption of organic products," Antonietti added.
"[The fact that]
agro-exports grew at an average annual rate of 12% —between 2000 and 2016— has enabled Peru to position itself as a highly competitive country in terms of fruits and vegetables," he noted.
The envoy also affirmed Peru has been a priority nation for Switzerland's economic cooperation since 2009.
Remarks were made at the presentation of the
World Bank's report titled "Gaining Momentum in Peruvian Agriculture: Opportunities to increase productivity and enhance competitiveness" in Lima on Thursday.
(END) JAA/MVB