The Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association discussed the asparagus industry 2023 production difficulties at its June 22nd PAIA Board Meeting in Miami Florida.

Unusual weather patterns in both Peru and Mexico have been a significant contributor to production and exports. Specifically, in Peru after 40 years without a cyclone, early March 2023, Cyclone Yaku reached northern Peru. According to the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (Senamih), the climatic phenomenon is an unorganized cyclone that is very abnormal and has caused rainfall to increase disproportionately in regions that were predominately dry. In just one day, the affected regions have received a year’s worth of rainfall.

In addition, El Nino is officially here and its heavy rains have negatively affected asparagus production, harvest and logistics in the north. Extreme precipitation has rendered approximately 40 percent or more of the fields to “regrowth” and delayed the harvest. This weather phenomenon of abundant rains has destroyed roads and created mudslides and floods making transportation impossible. In affected areas, cities have been declared a state of emergency wreaking havoc on transportation and causing major delays in logistics.

This weather phenomenon as it collides with El Nino weather conditions has increased growing temperatures to 80-95 degrees in some areas. Average temperatures during this time of the year range from 65 to 70 degrees. High temperatures stress production and trigger lower-than-expected harvests.

While the asparagus import industry has seen a month-over-month 40 percent decline in production, the forecast/anticipated arrivals into the United States will continue to be lower than expected for the next two to three months. The PAIA membership importers have their sights on a promising fourth quarter as production moves to the south, which has not been affected.

For more information:
Priscilla Lleras-Bush
Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association
Tel: +1 (817) 793-3133
priscillaprestige@outlook.com