Carlos Sanchez, head of the Piura Chamber of Commerce and Production (CCPP), congratulated the central government on reaching this agreement which, he said, will help create more jobs in the export-oriented agricultural sector.

"With the signing of the FTA, exports will likely grow by 30 percent next year. In addition, [the pact] will create new jobs in the agriculture sector," he told Andina.

In the specific case of Piura, the trade pact with the EU is seen boosting exports of mangos, grapes, piquillo (peppers), lemons and fish meal, Sanchez added.

The businessman went on to highlight the many benefits resulting from the trade deals signed by Peru with countries around the globe, allowing the region to export US$2.4 billion in products last year.

"That's a very good growth for Piura and is due to the signing of the FTAs," he said.

(END) LIT/JOT/EEP/LVT