Peru has exported 30 tons of alpaca fiber worth over US$500,000 in the first seven months of 2018, the Agriculture and Irrigation Ministry (Minagri) informed on the occasion of National Alpaca Day.
Every August 1, the Inca country highlights the
alpaca breeding as part of the national culture due to its uniqueness.
It must be noted this also represents an economic activity that has allowed farmers from 17 regions—including
Puno,
Cusco, Arequipa, Apurimac, and Huancavelica— to emerge from poverty.
Alpaca fiber
In addition, the Andean nation ranks as the world's top alpaca-fiber producer by reaching an annual production that exceeds 4,000 tons.
From that total, 95% is acquired and
transformed by the textile industry.
According to Minagri's projections, Peru will export more than 50 tons of
alpaca fiber by year-end.
Alpaca meat
On the other hand, Minagri noted the country produces 28,000 tons of alpaca meat a year.
This meat is characterized by its high protein content (24% of the total) and low cholesterol, which contribute to preventing
anemia.
(END) NDP/JAA/MVB