Peruvian government agency Sierra Exportadora has said it will install trial plots for Cape gooseberries in the country's south with a view to improve production and exports of the exotic fruit, which is also known as physalis, aguaymanto, goldenberry and uchuva.

Physalis is known to be an excellent source of vitamins A, B and C, and has been shown to help prevent various types of stomach and colon cancer.

Having realized the fruit's benefits and export potential, Peru's regional government of Tacna and Sierra Exportadora decided to set up a few experimental plots to understand the best cultivation practices.

According to a statement from Sierra Exportadora, plots will be prepared in the country's southern regions of Héroes Albarracín, Tarata and Sitajara because of their ideal climactic conditions.

Various agribusinesses are said to already be interested in buying both the organic and conventional versions of the product.

"The installation of the experimental plots is part of the initial agreements reached between Sierra Exportadora, the Regional Tacna government, and the Universidad Nacional Jorge Basadre Grohmann," the statement said.

"This work will boost the economy for the producers in the Andean areas of each region."

The project's first phase includes the installation of three plots, from which producers will be able to learn proper production techniques. This will be reinforced with workshops organized by Sierra Exportadora in conjunction with the municipalities, NGOs, agricultural associations, technical specialists and entrepreneurs.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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