Raspberry gains ground in Peruvian agriculture

The growth of berries in Peruvian agriculture is not limited to blueberries. New options are currently being explored to diversify this sector. As part of this drive, Agromercado, a Peruvian public entity attached to the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (Midagri), is promoting raspberry production among small farmers on the coast and in the highlands, even in areas up to 3,000 meters above sea level.

One of the strategies for its development is to locate these crops near frozen food clusters, since raspberries are a hardy, fast-growing plant that produces in only six months. However, unlike other fruits, it cannot be exported in its fresh state, so its commercialization will depend on the local market, promoting campaigns to encourage its domestic consumption.

Despite this limitation, raspberries also have potential in the international market. The idea is to take advantage of Peru's experience in exporting frozen berries, such as blueberries, and expand the supply with this new product. There are already buyers interested in acquiring more varieties of berries in frozen format, which opens up opportunities for marketing them outside the country.

To strengthen this production chain, agroexporters of frozen products are being invited to become involved in raspberry development. In addition, Midagri has begun to establish demonstration plots in experimental stations in northern Lima, Lambayeque and soon in Piura. The objective is for small farmers to learn first-hand about the crop and join a new export alternative with great potential.

source: agraria.pe

photo: ppfam.com