New milestone: Peruvian pitahaya exports hit USD 1M

PERU – Peru’s pitahaya industry has reached a significant milestone this year, surpassing USD 1 million in export revenue for the first time.

The dragon fruit, known locally as pitahaya, is rapidly gaining attention as a promising crop with strong export potential for the Andean nation.

David Sandoval, CEO and commercial director of Fluctuante, expressed his excitement about the achievement, calling it “a milestone for us to reach the first million dollars in exports.”

He added that pitahaya is emerging as a key player in Peru’s agricultural sector, with growing interest from investors and producers. “Some companies are producing and exporting pitahaya as people are investing in new crops,” Sandoval explained. “Since the pandemic, many withdrew from their pension funds and are now investing in agriculture.”

Despite the positive results, Sandoval noted that exports in 2023 and 2024 were “strong, but still small.” However, the industry is seeing rapid growth. Camposol, the leading exporter of Peruvian pitahaya, reported a 160% increase in exports compared to the previous year.

The company made its first commercial shipment in 2022, with subsequent exports primarily heading to the Netherlands. “Almost all exports this year have been via air,” Sandoval said, highlighting that sea exports are still in the testing phase.

Peru’s pitahaya exports are concentrated in several key regions, with La Libertad leading the way, accounting for 60% of the country’s exports. Other regions such as Lima, Ica, Piura, and Lambayeque are also showing potential for future growth.

While the industry is optimistic, there are challenges that need to be addressed. Guido Álvarez Dávila, an agronomist from Inversiones flor del cáliz SCRL, pointed out that Peru lacks certified protocols from SENASA for phytosanitary sites, which are crucial for securing export certifications.

“The protocols that had to be made with the United States, and which we have been promoting for two years, have not yet been fulfilled,” Álvarez said. He also mentioned the absence of a certified pitahaya nursery in Peru, though efforts are underway to establish one.

Another issue facing the industry is the variety of pitahaya being grown. Álvarez noted that while diversity is good, it could pose a problem when trying to fulfill large export orders, as small and medium producers may struggle to meet the demand.

“Large entrepreneurs are making varieties that are commercial, but we need a more unified approach,” he said.

Looking ahead, the industry’s leaders are optimistic. Sandoval emphasized the importance of learning from the experiences of other crops to ensure sustainable growth.

“The pitahaya market can mature to such an extent that it becomes as relevant as mango or aims to mimic markets like blueberry, grape, or perhaps avocado,” he said.

Sandoval also stressed the need for organized supply chains and consistent production to maintain stable prices.

Álvarez echoed these sentiments, highlighting the potential of regions like Madre Dios, which, due to its proximity to the Port of Chancay, could become a hub for pitahaya exports. “It is a long-term project because you have to do things well and not in a hurry,” Álvarez said.

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