Peruvian grapes are having an exceptional year on the international market, reaching record prices despite the many logistical challenges that the sector is facing. Factors such as the shortage of fruit in Europe and a growing demand in the United States have played a key part in this, although the season has brought with it significant challenges in terms of logistics, supply and inspections.
"This year, prices are reaching their best levels in years," says Alonso Puga, Proserla's general manager. The weighted average price of our varieties in the current season has reached $29 FOB per box; a notable improvement compared to regular seasons, when prices stood at around $21 and $22 FOB per box. This increase entails a favorable position in key markets such as Europe and the United States, which account for 60% and 40% of shipments, respectively.
Proserla's technical team.
To date, 180 containers have already been exported, and the prospect is to reach 350 by the end of the season; however, the coming weeks will be crucial, as competing markets such as Namibia and South Africa will start their exports and prices are likely to stabilize.
Despite its achievements, the agro-export sector has had to face some major obstacles. The overlap of mango, blueberry and grape campaigns has been putting pressure on the logistics, taking a toll on the availability of boxes, containers and transport. "This year, cardboard factories can't cope, logistics operators are saturated and there has been an increase in costs due to more demanding payment conditions," says Puga.
Moreover, the lack of inspectors has led to delays in the certifications required for export. According to Puga, this is having a direct impact on harvesting schedules and is generating additional stress and complications. "I've been trying to get my fields inspected for 10 days and so far nobody has come. This makes everything harder, because we have to meet very tight deadlines," he says.
"Despite these complications, the sector has shown remarkable resilience. While some producing regions are dealing with droughts, others, such as Jayanca, have kept their production stable thanks to the use of underground water sources. This context has allowed exporters to sell their products in favorable conditions," says Puga.
"Although the coming months will bring greater challenges with the entry of competitors in the global market, the current season is already shaping up to be one of the most successful in terms of economic recovery, strengthening the position of Peruvian grapes in the international market. We know that we must be quick to take advantage of this opportunity, before Namibia and South Africa enter the market," says Alonso Puga.
For more information:
Alonso Puga
Proserla
Tel.: +51 979 344 611
[email protected]
www.proserla.com