Small farmers in the Pampas River Valley are investing in Hass avocados, taking advantage of the sustained growth in Peruvian avocado exports. With established markets and favorable growing conditions, their entry into the sector marks a new era of opportunity for rural communities in Apurímac.

In the valleys of the Pampas River, in the province of Chinchero, Apurímac region, a group of family farmers decided a few years ago to invest in avocado cultivation—specifically the Hass variety—driven by the area's natural conditions and the promise of access to export markets. One of them, Alex, spoke enthusiastically about the experience: for him, "the area is very suitable... a tropical zone that is excellent for avocado cultivation," and he also emphasized that there were "markets that guarantee us the sale of the product." Thanks to this, many of his fellow farmers joined in the cultivation, and they are already beginning to sell their produce—even exporting to China and, in some cases, to Chile.

The decision to dedicate themselves to avocado farming is not simply a passing agricultural trend. In a context where small farmers in Peru are seeking profitable and sustainable alternatives, avocados represent an attractive option: they require fewer hectares than many traditional crops, allow integration into export value chains, and offer the concrete possibility of improving income.

The case of these producers in Apurímac reflects—on a small scale—a large-scale trend: in recent years, Peru has consolidated its position as a key player in the global Hass avocado market. According to figures from the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI), in the first half of 2025, Peruvian avocado exports reached more than 433,000 tons—a historic record representing a 32% increase compared to the same period of the previous year.

This momentum is also reflected in global export data: in 2024, the country exported 571,470.8 tons of avocados to more than 67 countries, consolidating its position as the world's second largest exporter of fresh avocados.

Additionally, 2025 showed an even more vigorous expansion: in the first six months of the year alone, exports exceeded 545,859 tons, generating revenues of more than US$1.034 billion, representing an increase of 35% in volume and 20% in value compared to the same period of the previous year.

According to records from the National Agrarian Health Service (SENASA), the Hass variety is dominant: in 2024 it accounted for approximately 93% of the country's total avocado exports. This dominance legitimizes the commitment of farmers in regions like Apurímac: their Hass avocado production places them within a consolidated export chain with high global demand.

A benefit for rural communities and new opportunities

For small farmers in Chinchero, entering avocado cultivation means more than diversifying their production: it's the opportunity to create stable incomes, access international trade chains, and contribute to local development. By integrating into the export market, they can take advantage of a product that is increasingly in demand—both in traditional markets and in new global destinations.

This model has received positive feedback: by prioritizing small plots, joining cooperatives or associations, and adopting good agricultural practices, farmers reduce risks, share technical knowledge, and increase their chances of commercial success. According to industry data, this "atomized" production model has been key to consolidating Peru's position as a global avocado exporter.

Furthermore, for many rural families, avocados represent a more profitable alternative to traditional crops, and open paths to an economy more integrated into foreign trade, with access to demanding and better-paid markets.

A vision for the future: challenges and opportunities

Alex's testimony—and that of other producers from areas like Apurímac—comes precisely at a time when the avocado industry in Peru is experiencing tensions: despite record export volumes in 2025, it has been reported that global market saturation has begun to put pressure on prices.

This could alert small producers to the need to maintain quality standards, seek certifications, explore differentiated markets or add value (for example, through agro-industry or exports of pulp or processed products).

However, the sector's resilience is based precisely on its capacity for adaptation: the expansion of avocado production into new regions, the growing incorporation of small farmers in Andean areas, and the technical and health support from public and private organizations are signs that inspire optimism.

For farmers like Alex, the avocado is not just an exportable fruit: it is a window to a more prosperous future, connecting the Pampas River Valley with international markets and, incidentally, offering a real opportunity for development for his community.