Agricultural exports from Peru are set to hit a new record, with total shipments projected to exceed US$12.5 billion in 2025, according to estimates from ADEx. While the sector as a whole is booming, the flagship asparagus crop has slipped from the top spot to a much lower ranking.
Asparagus Export Figures in 2024‑2025
In 2024, asparagus fell to fifth place among Peru’s agro‑exports, generating US$407 million from 97 000 tonnes shipped abroad. This is the lowest dollar value recorded since the 2009 launch of the U.S.–Peru Free Trade Agreement, when fresh or chilled asparagus led the market with US$248 million.
Between January and October 2025, export volumes rose 10 % to 79 000 tonnes, yet the monetary value stayed near US$305 million, indicating a modest price recovery.
The decline is also evident in cultivated area: two decades ago, asparagus occupied roughly 28 000 hectares, while today only about 10 000 hectares are under production.
Factors Behind the Decline
Gabriel Amaro, president of the Asociación de Gremios Productores Agrarios del Perú, points to the crop’s narrow profit margin, climate challenges, and recent regulatory changes as key contributors. “From 2020 onward production began to fall. In 2021 a new agrarian law added costs, and events like the coastal El Niño and EU phytosanitary restrictions further hurt competitiveness,” he explained.
The crop’s biology also limits its lifespan; plants become unprofitable after 12‑15 years and must be replaced, which discourages long‑term planting on the same land.
Rony Corvera, director of FreshFruit Perú, adds that internal competition from more lucrative crops—particularly grapes and blueberries—has diverted resources away from asparagus, despite Peru’s strong position in global fruit markets.
Other Leading Agro‑Exports
Meanwhile, blueberries, grapes, avocados and, most recently, cocoa have posted the highest annual export earnings, each reaching up to US$2.2 billion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the export value of Peruvian asparagus in 2024?
In 2024, asparagus exports generated US$407 million.
How have asparagus export volumes changed in early 2025?
From January to October 2025, volumes increased by 10 % to 79 000 tonnes, while the export value stayed close to US$305 million.
Why has the cultivated area for asparagus decreased?
The area fell from about 28 000 hectares two decades ago to roughly 10 000 hectares today, reflecting lower profitability, aging orchards that need replacement after 12‑15 years, and competition from more profitable crops.
What do you think could help revive Peru’s asparagus sector in the coming years?
