The organic banana sector in the northwestern Peruvian region of Piura is going from strength to strength, with annual exports now reported to be worth US$120 million. 

Local media Agraria.pe reported regional Governor Reynaldo Hilbck Guzmán said there were now 7,000 family growers, with organic plantations covering 7,000 hectares and producing some 160,000 metric tons (MT) of fruit per year.

"We have to highlight the huge importance this product has for the region," he was quoted as saying.

"This new and exotic export was made possible due to the conditions we have in the region, where our climate gives us the opportunity to grow organic products that can be shipped to key markets."

The regional government is reportedly supporting the project with almost 9 million soles (US$2.7 million) to help boost the productive potential and maintain the sector's profitability.

"The best way to protect a grower is to produce more, something that is called productivity. Producing with almost the minimum cost that will give options for growth," he was quoted as saying.

"This will require a technological transfer, new varieties, new growing methods, and much more care. Productivity means having fewer losses and more efficiency in production."

Hilbck also reportedly said the regional government was planning to improve the road network to lower growers' logistics costs, make the ports more efficient and guarantee water supplies, in addition to acquiring the necessary credit and 'formalizing' the sector.

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