Peruvian grape export values rose by 53% during the 2011-12 season to hit a record of US$328 million, according to statistics released by the country's Ministry of Agriculture (MINAG).

MINAG's agribusiness management team attributed a volume increase of 47% year-on-year to a bigger harvest in Ica, as well as the incorporation of new growing regions such as Piura, Lambayeque and La Libertad.

It said the increase in export values was a reflection of promotion activities to boost the consumption of fruit and vegetables, as well as the recognition of grapes' curative properties in the U.S.

MINAG added the incorporation of grapes in important holidays such as Chinese New Year and Labor Day had helped the category.

The U.S. was the leading receiver of Peruvian grapes during the campaign with a 26% share, followed by the Netherlands (16%), Hong Kong (11%), Russia (10%) and China (6%).

Significant investments in the sector have helped Peru raise its average grape yields to 18,698 kg/ha, with some regions have much higher yields including Piura (25,571kg/ha), La Libertad (25,079kg/ha) and Ica (19,523kg/ha).

Ica accounts for 45% of Peru's grape crops, followed by Lima (19%), La Libertad (15%) and Piura (11%).

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