Peru exported some 65,000 tonnes of citrus last year – the highest level achieved since 1999 – with value reportedly up by 25 per cent to a record US$40m, according to the Peruvian Citrus Producers Association (ProCitrus).
In 2007, Peru’s citrus exports reached 47,000 tonnes, compared with 36,000 tonnes in 2006, ProCitrus told local news agency Andina.
The bulk of the volume was shipped to the UK, comprising mainly mandarins, tangerines and oranges, followed by Canada, the US and other European countries.
Seedless citrus exports to US remained stable, while volume to Europe, especially the UK, grew in comparison to the year earlier.
In light of the global economic situation, ProCitrus has stated the Peruvian citrus sector will this year focus on improving its presence in Asia and Russia.
