The president of Peru's lúcuma producers (Prolúcuma) has criticized the government for failing to develop a national cultivation policy to capitalize on Europe's growing import demands, website Agraria.pe reported.

Graciela Trujillo said it was important to have the necessary paperwork for traceability and good agricultural practices.

"So far there is no documentation, or definition on specific pesticides for farming lúcumas or its derivatives," he was quoted as saying.

He said this delayed certification and monitoring of good agricultural practices on crop development holding up negotiations with markets which need these requirements.

Trujillo described Peru's National Agricultural Health Service (SENASA) as lacking any real authority.

"It has no autonomy of action and is dependent on regional government budgets making it a body which is out of control and insufficiently proactive."

Prolúcuma is frustrated with the situation as lúcumas are becoming increasingly popular in Europe and command high prices.

Trujillo estimated exports to Europe would increase next year by 40% with demand being particularly strong in England, France and Germany.

Customs data showed lúcuma pulp exports for the first half of 2011 reaching US$301,000 at an average price of US$2.78 per kilogram (US$1.30 per lb).

Prolúcuma statistics showed lúcuma exports of 168 metric tons (MT) at US$607,000 in 2010 compared with 148.8 MT at US$546,900 in 2009 and 90.6 MT at US$343,100 in 2008.

Photo: Blogsdeperu.com

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