The Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association (PAIA) reports a three percent increase in volume year-over-year for 2020 imports.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service statistics, Peruvian asparagus imports have grown to more than 206 million pounds in 2020. Peru is ranked as one of the top five countries that make up the majority contribution of fresh asparagus consumption in the United States for 2020.
Fresh asparagus 2020 import landscape (Top 5)
| Country | Quantity (lbs) | YOY Variance |
| Mexico | 375,302,609 | 3% |
| Peru | 206,479,443 | 3% |
| Canada | 2,840,876 | -38% |
| Ecuador | 1,126,121 | 125% |
| China | 143,520 | - |
| Import Total | 586,020,439 | 2% |
As a principal contributor to the United States fresh asparagus consumption market, Peru has maintained consistent quality supply to retailers on a year-round basis. “Peru continues to be a vital supplier to United States retailers. Our late spring and into summer supplies look to be exceptional and U.S. retailers can count on Peru to continue that steady supply of fresh asparagus throughout 2021,” said Walter Yager of Alpine Fresh, Doral, FL and co-chairman of PAIA.
USDA, Foreign Agriculture Service also reports that the import totals for fresh asparagus increased by two percent in 2020. USDA statistics report a consistent incline since 2017 when total imports were 502,407,040 lbs. (173,961,914 lbs. were Peruvian supplies). In 2020 however, total imports were 586,020,439 lbs. (206,479,443 lbs. were Peruvian).
According to USDA Foreign Agriculture Service, values have also increased for Peruvian imports. In 2018, total value in thousands was $239,105 while in 2020, total value was $261, 395.
Peru continues to contribute to trade with the United States and represents more than 40 percent of all asparagus import values. “Peru has a 30-year trade partnership with the United States. Both countries have benefited from successful exports and imports,” says Jay Rodriguez of Crystal Valley Foods, Miami, FL and co-chairman of PAIA. “Peru continues to expand its agricultural product offerings thus making them even more attractive to United States retailers.”
The association plans to focus even greater efforts in 2021 on spreading the positive word to trade press, supermarkets and consumers concerning the benefits of fresh asparagus. The association anticipates increasing consumption and demand for fresh asparagus in 2021 through articles, advertisements, direct-communication and trade show participation.
For more information:
Priscilla Lleras-Bush
Peruvian Asparagus Importer's Association
Tel: +1 (817) 793-3133
priscillaprestige@outlook.com
https://peruvianasparagusimportersassociation.com/