Peruvian mandarin growers have added eight countries to their collection of destination markets, according to the nation’s exporters association ADEX.

From January to September, the number of markets increased to 30, up from 22 in the same period in 2009, according to a news release. Among the new countries are Spain, Germany, New Zealand, China, El Salvador, Lithuania and Mexico.

As a result, exports increased by 31%, to US $50.9 million from US $39 million, during the same time period.

Attending trade shows such as Fruit Logistica in Germany, PMA in the United States and Expoalimentaria in Lima helped companies enter the new markets, said ADEX representative Laura Angulo, according to the release.

The main market for Peruvian mandarins is the United Kingdom (US $13.4 million), followed by the U.S. (US $12.4 million), the Netherlands (US $10.8 million) and Canada (US $6.4 million).

Peru’s mandarins are exported in two parts. The first and biggest--fresh and dried mandarins (including tangerines and satsumas)--has brought in US $34.5 million so far this year, compared with US $23.5 million in 2009. The second--fresh and dried tangelos--has generated US $16.4 million this year, compared with US $15.5 million in 2009, according to ADEX statistics.

Thirty-five companies export mandarins.Consorcio de Productores de Fruta S.A. sends the most, with shipments valued at US $21 million.

Photo: www.inta.gov.ar

Source: www.freshfruitportal.com