Due to increasing global demand for granadilla and passion fruit, Peruvian production areas of the fruits have increased by over 30% over the previous year, according to a recent report by the National Institute of Agrarian Innovation (INIA).

However, 45% of domestic market demand for grandilla is not being met, Agraria.pe reported, generating a price increase of up to 300% and highlighting the need for technological improvements for these species.

Production

Granadilla produces a national average yield of 10 tons (MT) per hectare but has the potential to arrive to 40 tons per hectare under good agricultural management practices.

Cerro de Pasco experienced the greatest output with 5,500 tons (29.4% of the total), followed by Cajamarca with 3,300 tons (18.6%), La Libertad with 14% of production and Huánuco with 8.4%.

Export

Between January and August 2012,  passion fruit juice  exports totaled US$17.5 million, at an average price of $2.91/kg, a 5% increase from the 2011 monthly average.

According to the summary, the increase in fruit consumption is related to health benefit findings on the pulp, juice, flower and leaves, which have relaxing effects. The effects are more pronounced in the case of the infusion, and can be used as a mild sedative or muscle pain or headache reliever.

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