Goal for 2025: To send a quarter of Peruvian avocado production to the U.S.
José Antonio Castro Echecopar, president of the Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC), emphasized that despite the effort made with a considerably smaller budget than Mexico, two key elements are missing: "quality and volume." He pointed out that improving the quality and handling of Peruvian avocados in the United States is essential to increasing export volume.
The PAC has set an ambitious goal for 2025: to export 25% of Hass avocado production to the US market. Castro mentioned that his objective for 2024 is to return to 200-220 million pounds, a significant increase from 170-180 million pounds. He emphasized that demonstrating a desire for growth is crucial to avoid being excluded from the market.
Both emphasized the importance of Peruvian avocado quality. Castro highlighted issues related to post-harvest handling and fruit management, urging exporters to select importers who handle the product properly. Equihua advised exporters to inquire whether the importer is a PAC partner to ensure quality.
Regarding quality, Castro emphasized the importance of producers and exporters auditing importers to improve the handling and distribution of avocados. However, he clarified that this oversight must be carried out by each exporter individually.
In another matter, Castro mentioned that Peruvian avocado importers who are members of PAC had better results this year than those who are not members. He stated that the relationship between importers and quality must be monitored by exporters.
Regarding promotional campaigns, Equihua announced a campaign for 2024 that will coincide with the Copa América. This campaign will include promotion in various sports, such as American football and baseball, as well as venturing into soccer. Both executives emphasized the ongoing effort to promote Peruvian avocados, despite the smaller budget compared to Mexico.
Source: https://agraria.pe/noticias/meta-al-2025-exportar-el-25-de-nuestra-produccion-de-palta-a-34297
