Peruvian agribusiness Camposol Holding has reported sales of US$38.3m in the third quarter of 2012, down 22.5 per cent on the same period last year.
The result has been attributed to lower volumes of avocado, due to climatic conditions in Peru and record high production in the US and Mexico, which adversely affected prices in the US market.
Earning before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) before fair value adjustments stood at US$4.4m, 70.8 per cent lower than the third quarter of 2011, while volume sold was 14,575 tonnes, down 16.63 per cent when compared to last year.
'The long term growth prospects for exotic fruits and vegetables markets are excellent,' the group noted. 'Avocado and mango are growing, with headroom for increased per capita consumption in key markets.
'In the case of asparagus, although consumption is stable, supply is falling due mainly to reduced exports from China. The company expects good demand for all fresh produce in general and for avocado specifically in both the United States and Europe.'
