Global food demand is projected to increase by 50-60% in the coming decades due to population growth and changing consumption patterns. In a high population growth scenario, approximately 15.410 trillion calories of crop energy will be needed to feed 10.800 billion people.

Factors such as urban population growth, increased purchasing power in emerging markets and shifts in food preferences towards more diversified diets are driving this demand. Furthermore, food currently accounts for around 8% of total global merchandise trade, highlighting its economic and social relevance.

However, there are significant challenges at a global level. It is estimated that one third of the food produced is not consumed due to waste, which generates significant inefficiencies in supply chains and affects the sustainability of the food system. This problem also represents an opportunity for the implementation of innovative technologies and sustainable practices that optimize food production and distribution.

In this context, products such as grapes, blueberries, avocados, coffee, asparagus, mangoes, mandarins and cocoa have shown increasing demand in international markets. Their consumption is associated with global trends towards healthy, functional and sustainable foods, which reinforces their appeal to consumers.

Latin America, as an agro-industrial superpower, accounts for nearly 25% of global exports of agricultural and fishery products. This region is in a privileged position to meet growing global demand, particularly in high-quality and value-added sectors. Peru, as a leading player within this region, has the potential to lead in key products, taking advantage of its biodiversity and the competitive advantages of its agro-export sector.

Current performance of Peru

In 2024, Peruvian exports reached record figures, standing out as a key driver of national economic development. Between January and September of this year, exports grew by 14.6% compared to the same period in 2023, totaling US$ 53.651 million and achieving a positive trade balance of US$ 11.365 million.

Exports were directed to 170 markets, with the main destinations being China (35%), the United States (13%) and the European Union (11%). This growth was driven by sectors such as mining, fishing and agriculture, with MSMEs representing 66% of the total number of exporters.

Within the country, 18 regions achieved positive growth in their exports, with Huánuco (+161%), Ucayali (+105%) and Puno (+103%) standing out thanks to products such as cocoa, coffee and gold. This dynamism highlights the importance of regional economies in the consolidation of Peru as a leading agricultural exporter.

Key Products and Outlook

The Peruvian agro-industrial sector has shown robust growth, led by products such as cocoa, coffee, fresh fruit and non-traditional crops.

Cocoa: Peruvian cocoa has established itself as one of the products with the greatest potential in international markets. Between January and August 2024, exports of cocoa and its derivatives grew by 241% in value and 61% in volume compared to the same period in 2023. This increase is attributed to the increase in the average price per kilogram (+112%), influenced by the lower global supply in the Marl Coast and Ghana, two of the world's largest producers. In addition, Peruvian cocoa is recognized for its quality and genetic diversity, with varieties such as Cacao Blanco from Piura and Cacao Chuncho from Cusco, highly valued in premium markets.

Regions such as Ucayali, Huánuco, Amazonas and San Martín have led the way with outstanding growth in their cocoa exports. The development of organic certification programs and support for small producers have been fundamental to capitalizing on these opportunities.

Fresh fruits: Blueberries and avocados are the main drivers of growth in Peruvian agricultural exports. Blueberry exports rose from 30.817 tons in 2016 to 224.888 tons in 2023, capturing 30% of the global market. The exceptional quality of Peruvian blueberries, combined with genetic innovation and market diversification, has allowed Peru to consolidate its position as a world leader in this sector. Avocados and mandarins, meanwhile, have shown sustained growth, with significant increases in regions such as Ica (+121%) and La Libertad (+42%).

Strategic products according to global demand

In addition to traditional products, Peru has a huge opportunity to develop strategic crops that respond to global trends towards healthy, functional and sustainable foods. Among the products with the greatest potential are:

1. Shelled chestnuts: In demand in Europe (particularly in Germany and France) as superfoods, they offer opportunities in processed products such as flours and oils.
2. Soursop juice: With growing interest in Asia for its functional properties, it is ideal for healthy drinks and as an ingredient in functional mixes.
3. Fresh raspberries, blackberries and mulberries: In high demand in the United States, Europe and Asia for their antioxidant content and association with healthy foods.
4. Fresh kiwis and quinces: With potential to enter high-end markets.
5. Frozen spinach: Aligned with ready-to-eat food preferences in European markets.
6. Shelled walnuts: Intended for the United States and Europe for use in snacks and baking.
7. Almonds in shell: With increasing demand in processed foods such as vegetable milks and flours, especially in the United States, Europe and China.

perspectives

The future of the Peruvian agro-export sector is full of opportunities. The global trend towards the consumption of organic, healthy and sustainable products favors high-quality Peruvian products. However, it is crucial to strengthen value chains, encourage research in agricultural innovation and promote strategic alliances that allow expanding the exportable supply.

Policies that promote the inclusion of small producers and the improvement of infrastructure will also be crucial to ensure the sustainable growth of the sector. With a long-term vision and the commitment of all the actors involved, Peru has the potential to consolidate itself as a global agro-export power.

Opportunities and Challenges

Innovation and quality: The development of modern genetic varieties and advanced agricultural management techniques have allowed the quality of Peruvian products to improve, positioning them competitively in global markets. However, the renewal of aged plantations and organic certification are key challenges to maintaining this growth.

Sustainability and diversification: Promoting sustainable value chains and diversifying supply towards organic and functional products are essential strategies to capitalize on growing global demand. Furthermore, integrating small producers into international trade can strengthen local economies and promote more inclusive development.

Blueberry demand: Peruvian blueberries have positioned themselves as a key product in the agro-export basket thanks to their growing global demand. This fruit is highly valued in markets such as the United States, Europe and Asia, not only for its quality and flavor, but also for its antioxidant properties and health benefits. In 2023, Peru captured 30% of the global blueberry market, consolidating its position as one of the world's leading exporters.

Global consumption of blueberries continues to rise, especially in Asia, where countries such as China and Japan have significantly increased their demand for functional and healthy foods. This scenario represents a unique opportunity for Peruvian exporters, who must focus on guaranteeing product quality, innovating in production techniques and exploring premium varieties that can differentiate themselves in competitive markets.

In summary, the Peruvian agro-export sector faces a promising future, driven by its product diversity, exceptional quality and continuous innovation. However, overcoming challenges related to sustainability, food waste and market access will continue to be essential to consolidate its global leadership.