China will allow pomegranate imports from Peru through a new cold treatment protocol

The most recent Peruvian pomegranate export season closed with record-breaking results, surpassing $100 million in international shipments, an all-time high for the industry. According to PromPerú, exports grew by 33%, from 30,000 to 40,000 tons. The primary markets included the Netherlands, the United States, and the United Kingdom, where Peruvian pomegranates are renowned for their flavor and quality.

PromPerú highlighted that these results confirm Peru's competitiveness as a reliable fresh fruit supplier and strengthen its global position. According to José Luis Gereda, President of ProGranada, this growth is due to small growers and family producers turning to pomegranate as a profitable opportunity after challenging years marked by the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and El Niño's effects. "Currently, seven companies, four of which are stocking companies, handle 57% of Peruvian pomegranate exports, aggregating produce from hundreds of small-scale farmers," he noted.

"Production is mainly centered in Ica, with 76% of the national total, followed by Arequipa with 18%. Regions such as Tacna and Lima Provinces are also beginning to show increasing potential due to improvements in the color and flavor of the fruit," he stated.

Europe remains the primary destination, accounting for 75% of shipments, with distribution through Rotterdam to various markets. However, the association is aiming to diversify its presence into Asia and North America, where phytosanitary protocols have so far restricted access. In this context, the upcoming approval of the quarantine cold treatment protocol for exports to China marks a significant milestone. "This procedure, which establishes a temperature of 1.67°C for 17 days, will allow formal entry into the Chinese market for the first time. China does not produce pomegranates between January and May, so the potential is enormous," Gereda emphasized.

ProGranada and Senasa are simultaneously advancing a second phase to enable export at 5.2 °C for 36 days, thereby reducing the risk of chilling damage. "This new protocol will need validation from the World Plant Protection Organization, a process that could take two to three years," he noted.

Another key aspect is irradiation, which has already been adopted in the United States. While this process increases the product cost by $2 to $3 per kilogram, Peru is contemplating establishing a national irradiation facility with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency. This initiative aims to lower costs and enhance its competitiveness against countries like Chile.

PromPerú, in collaboration with AGAP, has promoted pomegranates internationally. During events such as Madrid's Fruit Attraction and California's Global Produce & Floral Show, Peruvian companies held thousands of business meetings, resulting in sales projections exceeding $1 billion.

ProGranada forecasts nearly a 10% increase in production by 2026. This growth will be driven by opening the Chinese market, increased acceptance of irradiated fruit in the United States, and higher consumption in Europe. "With a harvesting calendar that runs from January to May, Peru is emerging as the leading supplier in the northern hemisphere during the European off-season," Gerada stated.