Peru aims to export to China several exotic fruits

In November 2016, during President Xi Jinping’s State Visit to Peru, he witnessed the signing of the sixth Phytosanitary Protocol for the export of Peruvian fresh produce to China.  This time it was for blueberries.

Previously, Peru had managed to open access to the Chinese market for table grapes, mangoes, asparagus, citrus (oranges, different varieties of mandarins and tangelos, pomelos, limes, etc.), and avocados. 

Dedicated to the slogan that is used in China to promote Peruvian fresh products, “Whatever You Need in Now in Peru”, next, Peruvian authorities are aiming to obtain the Phytosanitary approval for Pomegranates.  These have already been exported in regular quantities to Hong Kong and other southeast Asian markets. 

Besides this fresh fruit, “Peru is also working in gaining access in 2017 for quinoa and shrimp, two products with growing demand in China” says Vladimír Kocerha, Economic and Commercial Counselor of Peru in Shanghai.  “But work doesn’t stop there”, he adds. 

For example, Granadilla (Passiflora ligularis) commonly known as the Sweet Granadilla, is a fruit native to the Andes Mountains, mainly in Peru, although it can also be found in some of the neighboring countries.  It is very aromatic and contains Vitamins A, C, and K, Phosphorus, Iron, and Calcium. 

Presently it is exported to countries like Canada and some European markets and, as a first step, it is being introduced to Hong Kong, aiming to reach China, not too long down the road. 

Among the benefits of consuming Granadilla are its very high level of antioxidants, helps reduce stress because it has a natural sedative, regulates high blood pressure and assists to good digestion, strengthening the immunological system.  Besides, it is a natural fruit. 

In addition to Granadilla, Peru also produces and exports other exotic fruits like Camu Camu (which has the highest concentration of Vitamin C of any fruit), Passion Fruit (Maracuyá), Custard Apples, among others.  Peru also produces Nopal also known as Prickly Pears (Tuna Fruit in Spanish), which is grown on cactus trees and is well appreciated by the discerning consumer. 

Also, few people know that Peru is number one exporter of Organic Bananas to the World.   

So, work continues hard for Peruvian fruit exports in Asia.  China is an excellent market and the Chinese consumer is becoming increasingly sophisticated, demanding for new and better fresh products either in the wet markets, supermarkets or through e-commerce channels.