Since the start of 2024, Peruvian fresh banana exports have seen a significant decline. Although the volumes exported at the beginning of the year were still relatively similar to those of 2023, a growing negative trend in weekly shipments has been observed over the last month. In the last week on record there has been an 85% drop compared to the same period of the previous year, with only 871 tons exported. Peru has exported a total of 51,418 tons so far this year, which represents a 15% drop compared to the previous year.
The diversity of export markets has also been affected, with only 13 countries having purchased Peruvian bananas up to last week, compared to the 19 destinations recorded in 2023. Remarkably, countries such as Spain, Mexico or Colombia have not yet imported the fruit this year. The main export destinations have been the Netherlands, with a 32% share; Panama, with 22%; and Italy, with 12%. However, Chile, which was previously one of the top three importers, has reduced its purchases by more than 90%, and this has had a significant effect on the total exported volume.
Despite the overall decline, some markets have increased their purchases. The Netherlands has imported 16,667 tons, a 9% increase compared to 2023. Panama has acquired 11,236 tons, which represents a 7% increase compared to last year. Italy has recorded a 24% increase in its imports, with a total of 6,206 tons. Although these increases are positive, they have not been enough to offset the significant drop in the Chilean market, which has gone from 8,252 tons in 2023 to just 44 tons this year.
Source: Fresh Fruit / agraria.pe