Peru's banana exports in 2011 showed a 24% year-on-year growth to US$69.2 million thanks to the increased popularity of the Cavendish Valery variety, website Alertaeconomica.com reported.

The cultivar recorded a 28% year-on-year increase of sales reaching US$63.5 million, which accounted for 92% of all shipments.

The Netherlands showed a 36% increase in imports accounting for 57% of all export value, followed by the U.S. taking 21% and then Japan with making up for 8% of purchases.

The top exporter was Peruvian Banana Development Corporation (19%), followed by Central Piurana Association of Small Organic Banana Growers (14%), the Association of Small Organic Farmers of Saman (12%) and Bio Costa (11%).

Despite this success a loss in momentum of exports due to economic difficulties of major importer countries and adverse weather conditions affecting production, were also recorded.

Photo: Infoagro.com

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