Small growers hit hard as Peru’s mango crisis deepens

Peru’s mango industry is heading into another complicated season, driven by recurring oversupply, weather instability and rising water challenges. The impact falls mainly on thousands of small growers, who face falling international prices while logistics and operating costs remain fixed.

Output will soon increase as new high-density plantations and irrigation expansions come online, making diversification urgent. Peru relies almost entirely on Kent mangoes shipped during the Northern Hemisphere winter — a period that statistically brings a seasonal price penalty of nearly USD 1 per box, according to UDEP.

Brazil’s ability to export multiple varieties year-round, supported by paclobutrazol (PBZ) and controlled irrigation, allows it to secure higher prices and maintain continuous supply.

The upcoming opening of the Port of Chancay could improve access to Asian markets, where yellow mangoes dominate and Kent’s red colour may gain value during Chinese New Year. Redirecting part of the volume toward Asia could ease pressure in Europe and the US, although Brazil may step in to fill any gaps.

Greater market intelligence is needed across varieties, seasons and channels. Expanding processing — especially frozen mango, which fetches around USD 1.94/kg FOB — can help stabilise the sector. Seeds and peels, currently wasted, also offer cosmetic and food-industry potential within circular-economy models.

source: agraria.pe

photo: thejakartapost.com