Peru prepares to compete in the global cherry market

Despite the initial difficulties in importing genetic material and growing cherries in Peru, it is expected that in the short term tests will be carried out with varieties from the United States and Italy, which has generated optimism among agroexport companies. Cherry is a highly demanded product, especially in China, the world's largest buyer, with a value of $3 billion in 2023, 70% of which comes from Chile.

 

If Peru manages to develop its cherry production, it could compete directly with Chile, the main exporter. Although it does not yet have significant production, climatic conditions are favorable, and new cherry varieties are being tested. According to Gabriel Amaro, president of the Asociación de Gremios Productores Agrarios del Perú (AGAP), cherry has the potential to surpass blueberry in terms of export value.

 

The National Agricultural Health Service (Senasa) is working to facilitate the importation of genetic material and conduct research. It is expected that, in a few years, Peru will be able to start commercial cherry production, with the Chinese market as the main target, taking advantage of the growing demand and high prices during the Chinese New Year.