Peru strengthens its position as the second-largest avocado exporter worldwide by selling 36,360 tons abroad worth US$75.4 million, between January and February 2024, according to Sierra y Selva Exportadora —an institution attached to the
This figure represents a 79.2% expansion in volume of exported avocados and 72.7% in value compared to the same period of 2023.
Within this framework, the Netherlands —the European logistics hub— stood out, with 36.7% share in volume; followed by China, 20.2%; Spain, 14.5%; Chile, 9%; and Hong Kong, 7.9%.
Shipments to the Netherlands amounted to 13,343 tons, generating revenues of US$26.2 million, which represented 78.9% more in volume and 64.5% more in value compared to the same period last year.
Likewise, a notable growth is observed in exports to Asian markets such as China, with 7,341 tons acquired in the first two months of 2024 and a growth of 111.7% in volume over the last five years.
This reflects a strategic diversification of commercial destinations for avocados.
The frenetic increase in demand for Peruvian avocados by Chile also stands out, which acquired a total of 3,275 tons valued at US$5.2 million, which is equivalent to an increase of 347% in volume and 440% in value compared to 2023.
During the commercial cycle in 2023, avocado exports totaled 599,208 tons, valued at US$963.4 million, according to Midagri. This performance reflected an increase of 9% in terms of value and 2.7% in volume compared to the previous year.
Avocados entered 40 international markets, with the Netherlands, Spain, the United States, Chile, and the United Kingdom being the main destinations, which together absorbed 83.43% of the total shipped.
In Peru, avocados are produced in 16 regions, mainly in La Libertad, Arequipa, Ica, and Moquegua, as well as in the inter-Andean valleys of Apurimac, Cusco, Huancavelica, Junin, Ancash, and Lima's highlands.
It must be noted that 80% of family farming producers, who manage less than one hectare, play an active role in the avocado exports chain.