In 2022, Peru exported 642,905 tons of avocado for 1.036 billion dollars. This represented an 11% increase in volume but an 11% fall in value; a negative result due to the sharp drop in international prices, which stood at an average of 1.61 dollars per kilogram, i.e. 20% less than in 2021, according to information from Fresh Fruit.
“The fall in global prices responded to the growing competition, especially in the European market. The biggest obstacles that the Peruvian avocado faced were the emergence of new relevant producers (Colombia), the advance of classic competitors (Mexico), and the higher logistical costs that promoted internal production in remote areas (Europe).
Top destinations for Peruvian avocados in 2022
The main destinations for Peruvian avocados were the Netherlands (28% share), the United States (27%), and Spain (13%).
Exports to the Netherlands totaled 200,667 tons (+8% compared to 2021) for 287 million dollars (-21%). The average price of Peruvian avocado in this market stood at 1.43 dollars per kilogram (-26%).
Shipments to the United States amounted to 149,263 tons (+45%) for 284 million dollars (+33%). The average price was $ 1.90 per kilogram (-9%).
Peru shipped 101,264 tons of avocado to Spain (+14%) for 139 million dollars (-21%). The average price was $1.37 per kilogram (-31%).
Forecasts for 2023
“We expect prices won't improve in 2023,” Fresh Fruit stated. “They won't go up because the international markets expect the production of Latin American competitors will continue to grow, thus keeping the stock high in the main markets. That's why the initiatives to open new markets for Peruvian avocados -such as Malaysia and the Philippines, which are already waiting for the arrival of the first containers - are important to ensure the development of the local product."
Regarding the export volume, estimates are that Peruvian production will continue following the growth trend it's experienced in recent years. For example, the country exported a total of 9,610 tons of avocado last week alone, i.e. 67% more than in the same period last year, which marks a record so far in the campaign. This is a reflection of the good growth that avocado is obtaining in 2023. So far the country has exported some 53,422 tons, i.e. 49% more than in the same period last year. "
Source: freshfruit.pe