Peruvian capsicum exports fell by 5% in the first eight months of 2024

During the first eight months of 2024, Peruvian capsicum exports totaled $184.3 million, reflecting a 5% decrease compared to the $194 million recorded during the same period the previous year, according to ADEX Data Trade.

Dried capsicum led international sales, generating $105 million, representing 57% of the total exported.

Canned capsicum followed with 39%, then pastes and fresh capsicum each with 2%, and frozen capsicum barely reaching 0.01%.

Regarding destinations, the United States topped the list with $71.2 million, although this figure was 15% lower than last year. Mexico, with $50.6 million (+2.9%), and Spain, with $41.6 million (+17.2%), occupied second and third place respectively, together accounting for 89% of exports.

Among the most prominent products, paprika was the star, generating $90.1 million (49% of the total). This product was exported in various presentations, including whole, ground, and deveined. Piquillo peppers and bell peppers were also significant.

Obstacles and loss of competitiveness

Walter Seras Pacheco, president of the ADEX Capsicum Committee, explained that the reduction in exports is linked to the high prices of Peruvian products compared to competing countries like China, South Africa, and Mexico. After the pandemic, higher prices were well-received by international markets, but currently, these countries offer similar products at much lower costs, impacting Peruvian sales.

Although foreign clients still value the quality of Peruvian capsicum and are willing to pay premiums of up to $10,000 per container in some cases, additional costs exceeding $30,000 make it unsustainable in the global market. Seras highlighted the need to adjust prices to regain lost competitiveness.

Source: agraria.pe; Photo: peru.info