Peruvian grape exports amounted to USD 32.7 million last October, an increase of 152.2% compared to the same period of 2011, when shipments totaled USD 12.9 million, indicated the Association of Exporters (ADEX).
According to the exporter guild, the increase was due to the early departure of the Northern grapes and increased acres in producing regions like Ica and the incorporation of new areas of cultivation in Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, among others.
Grape shipments, mainly the Red Globe variety, traditionally begin in late November and culminate in March. However, this year began in October.
One of the most representative markets this grape season is Asia, where China stands outs for the volume of shipments concentrated mainly in the Red Globe variety, due to the light color preference and large caliber.
Adex reported in October that China was ranked in seventh place in the ranking of countries buying Peruvian grapes with a demand of USD 1.2 million (245.3% growth). A figure which is expected to improve, in a few weeks since the Chinese New Year celebrations will start.
He further stated that shipments to the Republic of Korea also boosted growth in exports to Asia this year. Although Peruvian grapes have been present in the market since the opening of last season (2011-12), there is preference for seedless varieties.
Russia is another market which shows a preference for dark fruit grown mainly in Piura. For that reason, the North region leads the increase in grape shipments to that market.
According to Adex, Peruvian grapes reached 27 markets, eleven more than in October 2011, like Korea, Brazil, Norway, Canada, Venezuela, among others.
