Peru's exports of organic crops will have doubled in volume over the last four years reaching US$322 million in 2012, website Inforegion.pe reported.

The Peruvian Export and Tourism Promotion Commission (Promperu) said while Europe was currently the biggest importer of organics, it would be knocking on the door of Asian countries to develop new markets.

Promperu agro-industrial co-ordinator William Arteaga said the Asian organic food market was growing.

"We have started strongly in the Asian market and destinations which look good in the short-term are Japan and the Republic of Korea. Hopefully, the big market of China will also do well," Arteaga was quoted as saying.

He said U.S. and European supermarkets usually have dedicated sections for organic food and shopping malls with specialized retailers.

The main markets the country is aiming to strengthen are the U.S., the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and Sweden. But Arteaga added Italy, the U.K., Canada, and Japan were also important.

In 2010 Europe imported 64% of Peru's exports with North America (mainly the U.S.) second with 31%, followed by Asia at 3%.

"The reality is Peru can grow the area it devotes to organic production. World producers are opting for this type of produce because they want to consume healthier and safer food."

Organic banana growth in Lambayeque

Meanwhile, the Peruvian region of Lambayeque is expected to record a 39% rise in exports this year thanks to the popularity of its organic bananas, fresh grapes and passion fruit juice with revenues hitting $US453 million, website  Agraria.pe reported.

The Regional Association of Exporters of Lambayeque (AREX) said these fruits, along with canned red peppers and dried paprika, had been star performers.

Lambayeque exported US$323 million of fruits - both organic and traditional - until October this year, compared to US$325 million exported for all of 2010.

AREX's foreign trade department head Carlos Ypanaqué Estrada, said his organization was committed to working closely with regional authorities to promote and develop exports which would benefit the local population.

The main export destinations are the U.S, Germany, Holland and Belgium where exports over the last decade have grown by 433%, 186%, 1,156% and 794% respectively.

Photo: Zonaorganica.com

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