The 2025 Peruvian asparagus season is showing clear signs of recovery, driven by favorable weather conditions and corrective agronomic practices. By May, Peru had exported 39,436 tons of asparagus, representing a 42% increase compared to the same period the previous year.
This growth in volume generated $126 million in revenue, up 18% from 2024, although accompanied by a 17% drop in the average price, which stands at $3.19 per kilo. The main destinations are the United States and Europe, two strategic markets for Peruvian asparagus.
Encouraging outlook, but uncertainties remain
Prospects for the rest of the year are optimistic. Export volumes are expected to exceed 2024 levels by more than 30%. Additionally, the early end of the Spanish season due to persistent rains could open a window of opportunity from June onward, potentially leading to price recovery if paired with an effective commercial strategy.
However, the abundance of supply and downward pressure on prices are creating uncertainty in the sector. In the absence of attractive margins and a clear strategy to boost international demand, some producers have opted to reduce rather than expand their planted areas.
Peruvian asparagus is mostly produced under a model where small farmers supply large exporting companies. In unfavorable periods, this system leaves little room to reinvest capital. This structure may limit the sector’s ability to adapt to new market challenges.
United States and Europe: two different contexts
From a commercial standpoint, the United States remains the main destination. Although annual consumption exceeds 300,000 tons, domestic production only covers 10–15% of that demand. Mexico dominates the supply, increasingly focusing on premium varieties, while Peru remains oriented toward conventional asparagus, posing a challenge as American consumer preferences evolve.
In Europe, the dynamics are different. Countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece produce primarily for their own consumption. However, the seasonal nature of the European market leaves room for Peru to step in outside local harvest periods. Still, growth potential is limited, as imports only account for 15–20% of total demand.
Source: freshfruit.pe
Cover photo: © Picture Partners | Dreamstime
