The Peruvian grape market experienced a significant recovery in the 2024 season, following the impact of extreme weather conditions, including the El Niño phenomenon and Cyclone Yaku, in 2023. In this context, Proserla, a company located in Jayanca (Lambayeque), managed to stabilize its production and improve volumes in two of its main crops, grapes and avocados.
The company increased its exports from 170 containers of grapes in 2023 to 305 containers last year, a rise attributed to improved weather conditions, effective management strategies, and new investments. "It was a season of recovery. We went through a rough patch, but we implemented improvements to stabilize the fields," stated Alonso Puga, Proserla's general manager. "We also installed a microbiology laboratory to strengthen phytosanitary management and the use of beneficial bacteria."
"The weather was more stable than in previous seasons. Temperatures remained close to the historical average, and the rains in the mountains helped to recharge the aquifers, ensuring irrigation of fields through wells. The grape season took place between October and December, taking advantage of a favorable commercial window in Europe and the United States, with a distribution close to 50-50," he said.
"The average FOB price stood at 23 dollars per 8.2 kg box, surpassing the 20-21 dollars historical average. The most popular varieties were Autumn Crisp, Sweet Globe, Sweet Celebration, and Red Globe, the latter with seed, which has increased in value due to lower availability in international markets," he stated.
In parallel, Proserla recently concluded its avocado season, which ran from January to the end of April, with 126 containers exported, mainly destined for Europe. "The fields significantly recovered after low calibers and lower yields marked 2023. This season, the calibres were more uniform and volumes were higher, which favoured commercial performance. The average FOB price of the 4-kilo boxes was estimated at $1.60 per kilo," Puga stated.
Avocados faced less logistical pressure than grapes because their window did not coincide with other intensive campaigns, such as mango or blueberry. However, there were port and shipping delays, a situation that continues to be a challenge for the sector.
Proserla has optimistic expectations for 2025. It has already started pruning its grape fields and plans to reassess its business strategy to diversify markets, including options in Asia. The company emphasizes the importance of staying alert for potential changes in trade policy, such as tariffs announced in the U.S., which create uncertainty for exporters of perishable products.
For more information:
Alonso Puga
Proserla
Tel: +51 979 344 611
Email: [email protected]
www.proserla.com