Cyclon Yaku in early March 2023 caused damages estimated at $630 million in the northern region of Peru, with strong winds and rain for weeks which lowered table grape production volumes by 30%.
Supply issues began in August when Hurricane Hilary struck California. From there, the industry witnessed a domino effect of adverse conditions.
In contrast, Chile assumed the position of the second-largest world exporter, contributing significantly with 497,000 tons.
U.S. retailers are focused on table grape imports and fruit in cold storage as the local harvest period has come to an end.
Peru has been on a strong growth streak, with an average increase of 20% over the past three seasons in the north.
The U.S. received 47% of Peru’s overall shipments in 2022. It is expected to remain the top export destination for Peruvian grapes.
Data reveals that a staggering 16 million 18-pound boxes have been shipped thus far, denoting an impressive year-on-year increase of nearly 40% compared to the 11.5 million boxes exported in the previous season of 2021-22.
With large shipment peaks at the beginning of the year now coming to an end, the sector is currently experiencing a slower period of growth.
With an almost 40% increase year-on-year, the Sweet Globe variety surpassed the market staple Red Globe by over 2 million boxes.
Inflation has Peruvian producers and exporters on alert over concerns that consumers may opt to purchase less expensive fruit.
