Peruvian pomegranate production declines

Pomegranate production in Peru fell by 33% this year due to the El Niño phenomenon in 2023, which affected fruit development, according to Peruvian media.

 

A local producer explained that the increased temperatures damaged flowering and fruit set, causing the decrease in production compared to the previous year. Despite having less fruit per tree, the calibres were larger.

 

The pomegranates, which can weigh between 1 kilo and 200 grams, were mainly exported to Russia, the United States, Canada and Brazil. Prices for large sizes fell due to the lack of alternative markets, although exports to Europe increased.

 

The price of pomegranate rose by 30% compared to 2023, helping to mitigate the volume loss. Production was reduced from 42,000 tonnes in 2023 to 28,000 tonnes in 2024, resulting in an economic loss of US$32 million.