Peru's asparagus export values have plateaued at US$225 million this year following a 3% decrease in sales to the U.S. which accounts for less than two thirds of the country's shipments.

Exports from January to October showed a modest 0.39% rise and could have dipped without an increase in other import markets.

Comexperu.org.pe said exports were offset by a 222% rise in Canadian imports following the abolition of tariffs after 2009's fair trade agreement.

Exports to other countries were also up with the U.K. recording a 13% rise making it the third largest importer after the Netherlands at 14%.

Spain and Australia are the fourth and fifth import destinations at 8% and 2% respectively.

The country's main exporters were Agroindustrial Beta (11% of total), J&P Agroexportaciones (7%) and Danper Trujillo (6%).

Over the last decade Peru's asparagus exports have increased on average by 19% on a yearly basis making it the second largest producer after China.

However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has said China's production estimates which stood at 6.5 million metric tons (MT) in 2010 to Peru's 313,880 MT are overestimated.

Comexperu. org.pe added the majority of China's exports were canned and frozen and that Peru is the world's largest exporter of fresh or chilled asparagus.

The organization said Peru's success was due to investment in improved irrigation which had transformed deserts into farmland.

Photo: Recetasdelujo.com

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