According to data up to week 3, Peru has exported 64 million boxes of grapes this season, equaling the total volume shipped in the 2023-2024 season. Since this season there are still three peak weeks left in the Ica region and about ten weeks of declining volumes, everything suggests the 78 million boxes forecast will be reached. Production might reach 80 million boxes, stated Benjamín Cillóniz, director of Exportadora Safco Perú.
This season's biggest concerns are the lack of containers and the operational collapse in the port of Callao. "If we had not invested in the port of Pisco last year, we would have been in big trouble. We must continue to work on decongesting Callao by further developing the ports of Pisco and Chancay," Cillóniz stated.
The start of direct shipments to the United States via bulk transport from Pisco was a notable development in 2024. This is an important step, Cillóniz said, but this method requires more planning and collaboration to avoid the issues we've had this season. "It is a misconception for shipping companies to think they only have to negotiate with importers. Large integrated exporters are the driving force behind Peruvian exports. They provide the necessary scale and have the expertise to manage logistical challenges such as cold storage, transportation, and inspections," he stated.
The exporters made container ships include Pisco in their routes and the exporters will also ensure the viability and sustainability of bulk shipping. Bulk shipping is essential to reduce our dependence on containers and risks such as strikes in the logistics chain, Cillóniz stressed.
Source: agraria.pe