Lavesh explains that there were several reasons, why it has been decided to grow and export Peruvian pomegranates. “We noticed there was an important commercial opportunity for this product in the market. The popularity of and demand for pomegranates are significantly increasing. Moreover, many of our clients already have the experience of working with pomegranates, so we were guaranteed with solid channels of distribution for the fruit. Besides, also the geographic location of our fields play an important role as these have adequate conditions to cultivate the crop. Evidently this wouldn't be possible without the hard work our growers put into developing a crop with the best quality suitable for export.”
The season is expected to start soon, according to Lavesh. “This years season will start in week 5 till approximately week 16. We start the season with the 'Smith' variety, which will be available up to week 9. Then the season will continue by exporting the 'Wonderful' variety. Our expectations are to export up to 100 containers in total. This is a lot compared to the 35 containers of last year. Our crops are quite young, so we are hoping to increase our volumes every coming season. Besides increasing the export of whole fresh pomegranates, there are also plans to venture with exporting arils in the near future.” As well they are developing new packaging formats, next to the 3.8kg pack, in order to cater the customers’ needs better.
The main export markets for Peruvian pomegranates are Europe, UK, Canada and Asia, continues Lavesh. “Yet there are more markets which are interesting. We are exploring the opportunities with clients in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. As well we hope that the phytosanitary restrictions for fresh pomegranates in the US will be lifted, so we can also start developing that market as well.”
Lavesh points out that at a certain point in the Peruvian season of pomegranates there is also supply from Argentina, Chile and South Africa. “The demand for pomegranates continues to grow, so there is enough space to compete in the global market and keep attractive prices. At CPF, we mainly focus on maintaining top quality levels, to solidify our brand image and give our growers the best possible return while developing a long term relationship with our customers.”
“The pomegranates are becoming more and more popular, but they are not there yet. We, as commercializers, continue driving the growth of consumption of pomegranates around the world. This in order to keep the same pace as the growth potential we see in our fields. If we are able to maintain a healthy growth, pomegranates might become as important for Peru as other major products.
There is a Peruvian pavilion during the Fruit Logistica in Berlin, which can be found at hall 25, stand B13.
For more information: Lavesh Mirpuri
Consorcio de Productores de Fruta S.A.
Av. Nicolas Arriola 314 | of. 703 Lima 13 Peru
T:+51.1.475.9999 Ext. # 127
E: lmirpuri@cpf.com.pe
www.cpf.com.pe