Peruvian avocado exports in the first half of 2020 increased by 15% in volume and 9% in value over the same period of 2019, totaling 265,260 tons and 518 million euro, as reported by Fresh Fruit.
During the first three months of the year (January-March), avocado exports totaled 32,453 gross tons, i.e. 59% more than in the same period of 2019. In these months, the price of the fruit exceeded $ 2.30 per kilogram, which is 22% higher than in the previous year. As expected, 70% of shipments were sent to Europe.
In April, avocado exports suffered the impact of the pandemic, and fell by 24% when compared to the same month of 2019, totaling 43,001 tons. Their price stood at $ 2.15 per kilogram, i.e. 5% higher than in the same month of 2019 but 10% lower than in 2018. In April, Europe continued to be the main export destination with an 83% share.
In May, avocado exports began to recover. Peruvian shipments totaled 86,911 tons, i.e. 26% more than in 2019, and the fruit was quoted at $ 2.16 per kilogram, a value similar to that of 2019 and 9% above 2018. The main destination was Europe, with a 78% participation.
June was the most important month for avocado exports. Peruvian shipments totaled 102,894 tons, a volume never achieved before. Best of all, the increase in supply did not have a strong impact on prices, as avocado continued to sell at $ 2.14 per kilogram, i.e. 15% less than in 2019 but 40% more than in 2018. Europe continued to be the most important destination for Peruvian avocado, but this time with a 51% share. This month, the United States gained prominence, with a 33% share, and a very similar price to the one in Europe: $ 2.11 per kilogram. Japan and South Korea also stood out, as these markets paid more than $ 2.60 per kilogram.
According to Fresh Fruit, unlike the first half of 2019, when the export volume grew by 9% but prices contracted by 30%, so far this year it has been possible to increase the export volume without affecting prices that much. Thanks to this result, producers expect the fruit will have a good remainder of the season, achieving a good year after two difficult ones.
Source: agraria.pe