Green asparagus is a popular item for Christmas, "Demand is increasing right now, but it is not always being met," says Cesar Cestrat from Special Fruit about the current market situation. Over the years there has been tremendous growth in demand for green asparagus, "In 1989 Special Fruit imported it's first volumes and at the time we only supplied to two countries. Now we sell green asparagus in 21 countries and we can't keep up with demand."
Retailers are eager
Numerous retailers, food service companies and wholesale markets buy asparagus from Special Fruit, "Green asparagus and asparagus tips are really growing, but there is much more potential. Asparagus is the king of vegetables, with the highest price per unit of weight. Many retailers are jumping at the opportunity to put green asparagus on their shelves."
A lot going to the U.S.
The market situation is different than last year, "Demand was not as high in the U.S. last year. Currently, 5 kilos costs $45 (40 euros). A lot is going to the U.S. now, and other markets are not as interesting for Peruvian export because the price in the U.S is so good." Yet, Europe is demanding a lot as well, "More and more countries want asparagus in their assortment, which is means demand is higher than supply. Most of the demand is coming from Benelux, Scandinavia and Germany."
The importance of Peru
In the fresh produce sector Peru has become an increasingly important supplier of fruits and vegetables, "They have a lot of fruit, including grapes, blueberries, avocados and citrus. The volumes of these goods are increasing. Asparagus remains one of the top products, and unlike the other products, it is available year round. Even with more asparagus being grown, there is still not enough to meet global demand. Because demand is generally higher than supply, the market is unstable, which pushes the price up."
The Peruvian asparagus come from Del Sol Fresh, a partner of Special Fruit, "Del Sol Fresh supplies us with year round asparagus, and not only from Peru, but also from other countries. They also supply white asparagus and asparagus tips. Despite the enthusiasm for the green asparagus, the white asparagus is not forgotten, "The supply of white asparagus is more limited but it is still an important product, although in many countries less so than the green. Recently, there has been a lot of ups and downs in the price. It is important to import volumes that the market can handle, known as a 'responsible' volume. This gives retailers and consumers confidence and assurance in the supply and the quality," says Cesar.
