Organic banana production in Piura, Peru, is facing challenging conditions this year, but is also showing signs of recovery. According to Gerardo Gonzales Sullón, Agronorperú's financial director, the drought at the end of 2024 harmed the development of the crop, reducing calibres and affecting yields.
Despite this, the company has managed to meet its delivery commitments, particularly to the Netherlands and South Korea. "In the first months, we exported two to three containers of bananas per week from our 80 hectares of land. We expect to end the year with 140 containers," Gonzales said.
To mitigate the effects of the water shortage, Agronorperú drilled new wells and used natural water reservoirs, managing to cover up to 50% of the shortage. In addition, the company has used organic products since January to improve yields in the second half of the year. "These products were always used following organic production standards," he stated.
"FairTrade certification has allowed the company to maintain stable relationships with European customers such as Agrofair, which also channels shipments to Asia. In 2025, the FairTrade minimum price was set at $13.95 per 18kg box, matching the 2023 level, after a drop in 2024." Gonzales highlighted the importance of Peruvian participation in setting these prices, taking into consideration the costs associated with sustainable production.
Agronorperu has also taken measures against Fusarium R4T, a disease that poses a threat to the global banana sector. "We are located far from affected areas and have strict protocols in place, including selecting suppliers with a low risk of contamination," Gonzales stated.
The company became a pioneer in sustainability within the Peruvian banana sector by installing a solar panel system to provide renewable energy to the technified irrigation system of its plantations, reducing conventional energy consumption. In addition, Agronorperú is working on recycling agricultural plastics by supplying used covers for the production of corner slats. The company is also monitoring and improving water consumption.
Gonzales also stressed the need to strengthen the representation of private companies in the banana sector, as the sector is currently represented by associations and cooperatives of small producers. Private companies would be good allies in the search for major changes that favor all. "We want to establish an organization that represents private estates, to work on common issues, such as sustainability, plant health, and trade relations," he stated.
For more information:
Gerardo Gonzales Sullón
Agronorperú
Piura - Perú
Tel.: +51 998 359 455
Email: [email protected]
www.agronorperu.com