Peru's asparagus sector faces a reduction in cultivation areas and climatic challenges, but maintains its international relevance and demand. In a context of decreasing supply from other producers, Agroexportaciones Perú responds to the international demand for green asparagus with continuous production throughout the year and more than 220 hectares cultivated in Paiján (northern Peru). "Our strength is that we have our own production all year round. This allows us to have continuity in terms of quality and volumes," stated Henry Espinosa, the company's representative.
Unlike other companies in the sector that reduced their cultivation areas due to climate change or to search for more profitable crops, Agroexportaciones Perú has opted to expand. Last year, they exported 500,000 boxes, and they expect to export between 750,000 and 800,000 boxes in the 2025 season. Its main markets are the United States (60%) and Europe (35%). The rest is shipped to Central and South American countries, with Brazil as an emerging destination. "We used to send 300 boxes a week to Brazil; now, we send 2,000 boxes. We have tripled the volume, and we see a market with a lot of potential," Espinosa stated.
Prices have behaved better than in previous seasons. "We are talking about 18 to 19 dollars FOB per 5kg box, which is already profitable for the producers," he stated. However, freight costs continue to be an inconvenience. "There are months in which sea freight is as high as 2 dollars per kilo, which makes us less competitive compared to other products such as blueberries, which pay better rates," he stated.
In terms of sustainability, the company has implemented the use of solar energy in its fields and plants. "We don't produce anything without solar power. In addition to being more cost-efficient, it is a way of looking after the environment, which is highly valued by our customers, especially supermarkets in Europe," he added.
Climate change has also impacted production. The company has seen yields drop from 16-18 tons per hectare to 10-12 tons. However, this year's favourable weather and the delay in the Spanish season have allowed them to maintain exports. "Excessive rainfall in Spain has significantly cut their asparagus season, which traditionally runs from March to the first week of June. This year, the production window has been practically limited to April and May. This situation has allowed Peru to maintain its shipments to Europe beyond the usual period, covering the demand from European markets in the face of lower local supply," Espinosa stated.
Espinosa is optimistic about the future of the asparagus industry in Peru: "The country's total volume is decreasing, but this is stabilising prices. Asparagus continues to be a flagship product for Peru, and we are committed to continuing to grow in terms of area and positioning."
Agroexportaciones Perú plans to increase its production capacity, incorporating 100 to 150 additional hectares this year, and strengthen its presence in international markets through direct agreements with supermarkets and importers.
For more information:
Henry Caballero
AgroExportaciones Perú Foods
Tel.: +51 945 409 546
Email: [email protected]
www.agroexperufoods.com