Peru has only exported two containers up until last week, and "although the fruit is still a little unripe (around 6 degrees Brix), Fruit Valley's export volumes could reach up to 5 containers per week once the Brix degrees go up to 7 or 7.5," says Carlos. The exporter explains that the harvest must be done with different levels of Brix, depending on whether the shipment is done by sea or by air. "If you harvest it with 8.5 or 9 degrees, during the 1,000 km from Piura to the international airport Jorge Chávez in Lima, the fruit will gradually increase its sugar level and reach 12 or 13 degrees on arrival."
Fruit Valley mainly exports the Kent variety under its own brand, Fruits Valley. "The Kent variety is the one we usually ship to Europe, also by air, with 12 degrees Brix and a 70 to 80% of colour, to countries such as Switzerland, Italy and Germany," explains Carlos. The German market is where they are most popular, supplied through Rotterdam.
Payment terms are affected by the distance, as importers are unwilling to take into account the 25 days it takes for the goods to arrive. "It is too much time and they pay 1 to 1.5 dollars per box in advance," he affirms. "This is an unfavourable amount, as growers will be left with virtually nothing when considering the costs of handling, packing, labelling and shipping to the harbour in Paita."
Payment terms are affected by the distance, as importers are unwilling to take into account the 25 days it takes for the goods to arrive. "It is too much time and they pay 1 to 1.5 dollars per box in advance," he affirms. "This is an unfavourable amount, as growers will be left with virtually nothing when considering the costs of handling, packing, labelling and shipping to the harbour in Paita."
According to Carlos, the goal is to expand in the German market, although recently "the United Kingdom has shown an interest in this new brand, Fruits Valley, which after just two years is finding a place in the European market."
For more information:
Carlos Morales T (Commercial Manager)
Fruits Valley SAC.
Tel : (51-1) 4617146
Mob: (51-1) 999102341
carlosmorales@fruitsvalley.com
www.fruitsvalley.com