Attractive prices drew a greater share of Peruvian avocado exports to Europe in the first half of 2015, at the expense of the U.S. market where Mexican growers have capitalized on less Californian supply.

Statistics from promotion agency Promperu show the Netherlands overtook the U.S. as the leading export destination during the period, with a 21% increase in volume to 42,449 metric tons (MT).

Not only have exports increased to the main EU port, but Tricop data shows average prices ranged between €2.28-3.37/kg in July, compared to €1.31-1.65/kg during July in 2014.

The Dutch gain however was less than the fall for the U.S., which imported 27% fewer Peruvian Hass avocados with a total volume of 27,555MT.

Spain also purchased 10% less at 10,328MT, but the drop was more than offset by the U.K. which purchased 69% more at 10,328MT.

According to Agronometrics, prices for Peruvian avocado exports to the U.S. started the season with slightly lower levels, down by around 2-7% year-on-year. However, after week 27 they have been stable at similar levels to 2014 around the US$2.50/kg mark.

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