Potential for Peru as climate impacts citrus sources

Importer-exporter Salix Fruits sees great potential in Peru as a supplier of various fruits, including grapes, pomegranates, citrus and avocados, according to CEO Alejandro Moralejo following a recent visit by executives to the region.

“This country not only offers good logistical services without major complications, but also can efficiently serve markets in Latin America, Europe and Russia,” said Moralejo.

According to Salix, availability and quality of citrus fruits have been “severely” affected this year by frosts and climatic events in the Southern Hemisphere.

In addition, issues in the Red Sea have “significantly” impacted maritime traffic, the company said, increasing transit times and leading to oversupplies or shortages in various markets.

Despite smaller calibres, as well as higher prices due to high demand in the US and Latin America, Peruvian mandarins continue to find opportunities in Europe and Russia, as climatic issues affect supplies from Argentina and South Africa.

“Mandarin consumption in Europe experiences growth from the first week of September, coinciding with the start of the school period and the arrival of cooler weather,” said Moralejo. “To take advantage of this demand, beginning shipments from August is crucial.”