LIMA: Peru’s berry exports reached US$94.261 million in 2015, a figure at least three times higher compared to the same period in 2014 (US$30.0 million), government-run Sierra Exportadora program reported. The result exceeded expectations of farmers residing in coastal and Andean regions.
According to the Ministry-run entity, shipments of highland-grown berries amounted to US$1.106 million. The figure is higher compared to the US$457,000 recorded in 2014.
“If we continue producing at this pace in the coast and highlands, exports should exceed US$200 million in 2016, since foreign demand for berries is increasing,” Sierra Exportadora Chairman Alfonso Velasquez affirmed.
Under this approach, Velasquez encouraged producers to continue betting on this national product with aim of satisfying customers and entering new markets. Peru’s blueberries exports have experienced an intense increase over the last four years.
The country went from almost zero shipments in 2011 to US$465,000 (2012), US$15.184 million (2013), US$29.278 million (2014). A significant growth could be seen recently, reaching over US$94 million in 2015.
The United States remains as the main target market with US$53.2 million, followed by the Netherlands (US$25.7 million), United Kingdom (US$11.55 million) and Hong Kong (US$5.99 million).
