Peruvian Inka Fruit, a Peruvian export company that has been in the market for six years, is expanding its global reach with fresh products such as mango, pomegranate, asparagus and ginger. In a recent interview at the Asia Fruit Logistica trade fair, Erick Lava Laguna, the company's general manager, shared some details about the challenges the company is facing, its expansion plans and the importance of maintaining high quality standards.
Peruvian Inka Fruit's main market is Europe, with Spain leading the way, followed by the Middle East, where the company has managed to position itself as one of the main mango exporters. In its efforts to diversify and increase its presence in Asia, the company is focusing on entering the Korean market. "We want to grow in Korea and consolidate our relationships with new clients," says the general manager.
As far as mango exports are concerned, Peruvian Inka Fruit has specialized in both air and sea freight. This year, the company has started promoting the Haden variety in markets such as Canada, Greece and Russia, although it is still mostly focused on the Kent variety, which will be in the spotlight next season. Lava Laguna says that although the Haden variety is promising, "it still needs to be appreciated by the market and harvested at the right time to guarantee the supply of fruit with a good aroma and flavour."
The weather has been a determining factor in this year's campaign, with low temperatures affecting the mango flowering in Peru. Despite these challenges, the company remains optimistic, while also a bit cautious. "We can't say that there will be enough volume due to the water crisis in Piura and the mangoes that are falling to the ground," says Lava Laguna, highlighting the need to focus on quality in order to compete in the global market.
Also, the company is dealing with ever greater demands for certifications in the European market. Peruvian Inka Fruit has certifications such as GlobalG.A.P., GAS and SMETA, which play an essential role in maintaining its competitiveness in Europe. "In Asia, certifications are not as strict, but in Europe they are necessary to guarantee the quality and health of our product," says Lava Laguna, underlining the importance of good agricultural practices.
With the forthcoming opening of the port of Chancay in Peru, Peruvian Inka Fruit sees a great opportunity to improve its logistical operations, especially towards the Middle East. This new port will reduce transit times, which could improve the quality of the exported fruit and reduce costs. "The port of Chancay is giving us an opportunity to reduce our costs and improve quality," says the general manager.
The company remains committed to quality and innovation, always seeking to differentiate itself in the competitive international fruit and vegetable market.
For more information:
Erick Lava Laguna
Peruvian Inka Fruit
Tel: +51 941480010
[email protected]
www.inkafruit.pe