Some importers of Peruvian table grapes are not expecting such as bad a season as earlier feared. Floods and heavy rains in the north of the country have devastated many crops and affected a number of export commodities. But table grapes from the southern Ica regions appear to have missed the worst of it and yields are anticipated to be higher this season when it commences.
"Towards the end of November, we should start seeing Peruvian table grapes entering the market," said Steve Pearson, of Bengard Marketing. "It's an early grape variety and will be shipped during the latter part of November and into December. The California season is finishing up now and the Chilean season won't start until close to New Year. So there is that window for the Peruvian deal to fill the gap. Growers in Northern Peru continue to anticipate a significantly shortened crop but producers in Ica have not reported the same phenomenon. Grower expectations are high for a good crop this year and we don't foresee any supply issues. There were floods in the north of the country in March, but the majority of these grapes are coming from the south, where they have escaped the worst of the wet weather. Our expectation is that yields will be moderately higher than last season."
Market sees strong prices
Prices for the Peruvian table grapes are also looking strong. Higher prices are forecast in the early part of the season, followed by a steady decline as volumes pick up and the Chilean season kicks in. Demand should also continue to be good as the end of the year approaches and Californian grapes sell out."Prices are going to be on the high side," Pearson said. "We are looking at a figure of between $30 and $40 during November as the Peru grapes hit the market and California has finished. Prices should then come down in December as supplies steady. The first fruits get the premium pricing, but once the Chilean grapes enter the market, they overlap with the end of the Peru season. At that point, prices are expected to come down to between the mid $20s and the low $30s, however it's a bit far out to be predicted with any certainty."
For more information:
Steve Pearson
Bengard Marketing
Tel: 310-605-5105