The entry of new products such as blueberries into China could help raise Peru's exports to the Far Eastern nation by 30% next year, according to the country's Association of Exporters (ADEX). 

In a release, the group highlighted the protocol for the soft fruit was signed today in Lima's Presidential Palace by Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski (PPK) and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The Chinese leader is in the Peruvian capital as part of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum, where leaders from around the Pacific Rim have pledged their commitment to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) even if the U.S. pulls out under the presidency of Donald Trump.

ADEX highlighted exports of value-added products were down 27% in 2015 at US$344 million, which was also lower than the US$367.2 million recorded in 2013.

The group hailed the export agreement, as well as the fact exporters could now export directly to the market with flights from China Eastern Airlines. 

The inaugural shipment with the new direct route to Shanghai took off from Lima today, loaded with blueberries, avocados, asparagus, mangoes, grapes and other products. 

ADEX president Juan Varilias said China had played a very important role in Peru's sustained growth over the past 15 years due to significant demand for minerals and investments in the mining sector, making it the nation's top trading partner. 

He said agreements like those signed today meant this trade partnership could be extended to the high quality products from Peru's arable land.

"Peru could be one of the main suppliers of foods for the Chinese people," he said.

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