Peru faces climate challenges in avocado production
The avocado industry in Peru has experienced remarkable growth in recent decades, driven by a combination of favorable policies and international trade agreements. However, the recent avocado season has been one of the most challenging in the country's history, according to Juan Carlos Paredes, president of Prohass Peru.
In an interview with Avobook, Juan Carlos Paredes explained that, while the legislative and economic context has been key to the sector's development, unexpected climate changes have negatively impacted avocado production in Peru. "The weather in recent months has been completely unpredictable," Paredes noted, indicating that climate variability has hampered agronomic planning, especially in the northern region of the country, where production drops of up to 70% were recorded in some areas.
Despite these setbacks, the sector remains resilient, with continued growth in plantings in the Peruvian highlands. These new areas, located between 2,500 and 3,500 meters above sea level, have begun to contribute significantly to national production, partially offsetting losses in other regions.
According to the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI), Peru is currently the world's second-largest exporter of Hass avocados, second only to Mexico. In 2023, the country exported more than 560,000 tons of avocados, generating revenue exceeding US$950 million. The main export markets include Europe (especially Spain and the Netherlands), the United States, and recently, China has begun purchasing an increasing volume of this fruit.
Paredes noted that the expansion of avocado orchards in Peru appears to be reaching its limit, with stabilization expected in the short term. However, cultivation on small plots continues to expand, especially in the highlands, which could sustain supply growth in the future.
Regarding market diversification, Asia is emerging as a key region for Peruvian avocados. Paredes mentioned that China and India represent markets with significant growth potential, although they have not yet established themselves as major consumers. Despite challenges, such as European restrictions on cadmium, Paredes expressed optimism about the future of Peruvian avocados, highlighting their sustainability as a key factor in global competitiveness.
