The Peruvian table grape industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with exports increasing from 400,000 metric tons (MT) in 2019-2020 to 622,000 MT in 2022-2023. Despite a slight decline in exports to 525,000 MT in the 2023-2024 campaign due to weather conditions affecting fruit quality, Peru remains the world’s largest exporter of table grapes. China has also seen a significant increase in exports, reaching 490,000 MT in 2023-2024, while South Africa and Chile have maintained stable and decreasing export levels, respectively.
The Peruvian Table Grape Producers Association (Provid) projects record exports for the 2024-2025 season, estimating over 78 million boxes of grapes, equivalent to approximately 640,000 MT. This represents a 25.4% increase over the previous season, driven by production recovery and the introduction of new, higher-yield grape varieties. Peruvian grapes are primarily exported to the United States, Europe, Latin America, and China.
David Sandoval, the general manager of Fluctuante, highlighted Peru’s transition from an emerging exporter to a global leader in the table grape market. He attributed the industry’s growth to crop expansion, varietal innovation, and strategic trade agreements, leading to Peru accounting for 16% of the global market in the 2022-2023 season. Sandoval expects a new record of 640,000 tons for the 2024-2025 campaign, driven by production recovery and the introduction of seedless grape varieties like Sweet Globe and Autumn Crisp.
As of week 46 of the 2024-2025 campaign, table grape exports had reached US$392 million, totaling 138,000 tons. While there was a decrease in value and volume compared to the previous season due to weather events, there was a significant increase compared to the 2022-2023 season. Key production regions in Peru include Ica, Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Arequipa, Ancash, Lima, and Moquegua.
Peruvian table grape exports reach over 50 international markets, with the United States, Europe, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Brazil, and China being primary destinations. Sandoval highlighted the industry’s recent achievement of successfully exporting grapes cold-treated in shipholds for the first time in South America, aiming to improve efficiency and quality in the supply chain.
The outlook for the Peruvian table grape industry is optimistic, with the sector’s resilience in overcoming challenges and adaptability to changing consumer preferences. Sandoval emphasized Peru’s position as a key player in the global table grape market, contributing significantly to the country’s economic and social development. With sustained growth projections, Peru is set to have a historic table grape export season in 2024-2025, surpassing previous records and solidifying its leadership in the global market.
