Peruvian citrus exports to China could have a big jump in 2017. After having placed some 60 containers with 1,300 tons of fruit in China so far this year, Peruvian citrus shipments to China next year could reach 100 containers, i.e. 67% more than in 2016 and five times more than was delivered in 2013, projected Sergio del Castillo, general manager of Procitrus.
Del Castillo said the demand for Peruvian citrus had increased in specialized fairs. He said the local exporters of avocado or grape to China had received requests for mandarins. "Those who could not perform shipments this season, will do so in the 2017," he noted.
The Asian market is the eighth largest buyer of Peruvian citrus, even though they only account for a little more than 1% of the country's total citrus exports, which could close the year at 125,000 tons, i.e. an 8% year on year progress that would generate slightly more than 130 million dollars.
Mandarins account for 73% of the volume of citrus marketed this year. The Murcott variety increased by 145% compared to 2015. Shipments of satsuma mandarins, tangelo, grapefruit, and lime decreased by 22%, 18%, 14% and 37%, respectively.
More markets
According to Procitrus, now that the country has already started to ship mandarins to Brazil, where they have sent nearly 23 tons, Peru is exporting its citrus products to 37 destinations. The country expects to start exporting citrus to Japan in 2017. "There are also requests pending in Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Taiwan, and India", he said.
Procesadora Laran, the Fruit Producers Consortium, Coexa, Hoja Redonda, and Camposol concentrated 61% of citrus exports this year. Citrus production grows at a rate of between 1% and 2% annually.
Source: El comercio