Peruvian artichoke exports totalled US$ 24.7 million in the January-April period of 2014, representing a six percent increase over the same period last year, the Association of Exporters (ADEX) reported.
In 2013, Peru ranked third place in the export of canned artichokes with 9% of the total volume exported. China and France ranked first and second place, with 24% and 11% of the total, respectively, according to the Intelligence System of the United Nations Comtrade.
The growth was due to a diversification of markets and the use of canned artichoke, which has better opportunities in Europe (Spain, France and Germany in particular), freshplaza.com reported.
In addition, the Management of ADEX's Agro stated, a new consumption habit of this vegetable in vinegar, accompanying cocktails, has increased demand in the USA, their main destination.
Thus, between January and April 2014, there were two kinds of artichoke exports: Prepared or unfrozen canned artichokes (the most important variety, which amounted to 24 million dollars) and Fresh or frozen artichokes. In total, Peru exported 9 tons of artichoke.
Exports were sent to 20 countries. The main destination was the USA with 15 million (36% growth), followed by Spain with $4 million and a 22% contraction. Other destinations were France (-33%), Germany and the Netherlands, which grew by 63% and 24%, respectively.
There was also a low demand in countries such as Chile (38%), Turkey (19%) and Venezuela (93%), according to Peru's Exporter Association (ADEX).
However, in other countries the demand increased considerably as was the case in Canada (which ranked 7th), with a variation of 117%; Brazil (ranked 9th), with a 171% increase, and the United Arab Emirates (19th), with a growth of 441%.
It should be noted that the Peruvian artichoke can be produced almost throughout the whole year so the country can exploit the counter season of the USA and Spain.
