The Peruvian fruit and vegetable industry has experienced sustained growth in recent years, with the trend expected to continue as the South American nation grows in stature in international markets. With more businesses wanting to become a part of this story, the Produce Marketing Association (PMA) is hosting the first Fresh Connections Peru 2011 on Aug. 31 in Lima's Hotel Sol de Oro.

In the first five months of 2011 Peru registered 36.5% year-on-year growth for non-traditional exports, including asparagus, mangoes, table grapes, avocadoes and paprika among others.

The country's main destinations for fruit shipments were the U.S., the Netherlands, Spain and Germany.

U.S. purchases rose 27.2% during to US$303 million during the period, with a strong sales presence from mangoes (US$41.2 million), fresh asparagus (US$41 million) and fresh grapes (US$15.2 million).

The event titled 'Achieving Success in the Current Market' will help Peruvian exporters understand the perspectives of U.S. importers, with the first talk to be given by PMA vice president of global development Nancy Tucker, who will analyze fruit and vegetable consumption trends.

Tucker will be followed by Giumarra Agricom International general manager Bruce Dowhan and Pandol Brothers director of global operations David Sudduth.

Bayer marketing manager Edi Vallejos will then discuss the importance of innovation and keeping agriculture sustainable, followed by Schnucks former vice president of perishables Randy Weidel who will help answer the question, 'what do retail chains expect?'

Fresh Connections seminars form part of the educational and informative work of the PMA and are held in various fruit and vegetable-supplying countries. The seminars help consolidate the global horticultural event as one of the most important in the industry, promoting networking expansion.

For further information contact the PMA on (56-2) 717 1114 or (56-2) 717 06 70, or send an email to mjgarcia@yc.cl. Members of PMA-Peru receive two free tickets while other PMA members receive one free ticket.

To read more go to www.pmaperu.com.

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