According to Fresh Fruit, adverse weather conditions have generated concerns about a decrease in Peru's table grape export volume, as it would directly affect the most influential markets and have obvious consequences in those destinations that are less well served. "It's clear how important the Peruvian product is and the bargaining power it could have to further consolidate its leadership in the future."
The weather has been the most determining factor in the 2023/2024 Peruvian campaign. High temperatures accelerated grape production cycles. This boosted exports of fresh grapes until December, reaching 391,523 tons for a value of US $1.161 billion and showing a year-on-year growth of 31% in volume and 56% in value. However, "these figures can be very misleading due to the advance of the season."
According to the latest projections made by FreshFruit, export volumes are expected to fall by around 10% in this 2023/2024 season. "The rains damaged fields, but the greatest damage came from the high temperatures that affected the quality of the product of the fields that did produce. Many of them have reported a decrease in sizes and in the fruit's integrity, which increased losses and decreased the volume of fruit suitable for export."
The international dynamics reveal a concentration of grape shipments to the US market, which accounts for more than 48% of the total share so far this season. Despite a 32% growth in volumes, a decrease is expected as the season progresses. Prices obtained in the US have been favorable because of the interruption of domestic production in regions such as California. As a result, the price of Peruvian grapes has increased by 16%, reaching US$3.08 per kilogram.
This concentration in the US market has affected shipments to other regions, especially Europe. Peruvian shipments increased until December, but according to forecasts, by the end of the season shipments to Europe will be lower than in the previous season. However, the low production in Spain and the early closure of the Italian campaign have allowed the largest Peruvian volume to enter the European market with better prices, reaching an average of US$2.76 per kilogram until December.
Source: freshfruit.pe