The farming of raspberries in the mountains of the Piura region has all the right conditions to become an important export product for small rural producers.
Alfonso Velásquez, president of Sierra Exportadora, explained that the production of raspberries is an opportunity for innovation and profitability for rural farmers, as the Andean area of Piura has the climatic and agricultural conditions for a quality crop.
The official said that the provinces of Huancabamba, Ayabaca and Morropón, as well as areas above 1,500 meters above sea level are suitable for growing raspberries and varieties of berries such as blueberries and the Peruvian golden berry.
"Growing raspberries is a good alternative for small producers. Soil and temperature characteristics are favorable for a product whose precarious investment, and high demand abroad make it a potential product, " said Velásquez.
15 thousand hectares to sow berries
Velásquez also explained that in the Andean zone of the department of Piura a promotion to sow at least 15 thousand hectares of berries is projected. Those known as "Forest Fruits" seek to be part of the international boom in berry exports, as their high antioxidant and protein content ensure a high demand in Europe.
"The precipitations that occur from December favor the cultivation of berries and raspberries. In this scenario the Piuran producers could favor their crops in the months of April and September, "said Velásquez.
Source: larepublica.pe
