2024 was a complicated year for Peru's avocado production as continuous adverse weather conditions affected the regularity of the harvest. Despite these obstacles in the production chain, the avocado commercial sector showed a response capacity that allowed it to close the campaign positively. Avocado is one of the main pillars of Peru's agro-export, along with blueberry, grape, and coffee.
By the end of September 2024, Peru exported approximately 587,000 tons of fresh avocado, generating revenues close to $1.26 billion. This represented a 9% decrease in volume but a 23% increase in value as the average price stood at $2.15 per kilogram and was 34% higher than in the previous season. The sector expects that, at the end of the season, it will have exported 591,000 tons of avocado for $1.27 billion.
Reports are that, given the reduction in volume, some producers opted for a long-term vision, pausing the campaign to avoid crop depletion and to have a more abundant harvest in 2025. Thus, the sector expects production will increase considerably next year if conditions are favorable.
Europe continues to be the main destination for Peruvian avocados, absorbing 68% of exports. This happens, not only because European customers prefer Peruvian avocado, but also because the other highly attractive market (the United States) is dominated by Mexican avocado and opportunities only open up for Peru when it is in short supply. Shipments to Europe decreased slightly, but a 36% increase in price offset the drop in volume, demonstrating Europe's preference for Peruvian avocado and the sector's ability to adapt to challenges.
Shipments to the United States, which continues to be an important destination, fell by almost 16% this year. However, this fall was offset by a 35% increase in the average price.
Source: agraria.pe