Peru’s Association of Exporters (Adex) announced that Peruvian cacao is surely gaining more presence in Canada, thanks to the growth of exports, which increased to US$644,105 from January to May this year.
Adex said economic prospects are better now since Aliments Tousain Inc. -Canadian importer and distributor of fine foods- is coming to Peru in the next few weeks to source more domestic suppliers under the Expoalimentaria fair, the largest international food trade show in the region.
In addition, according to Adex Data Trade Intelligence System, cacao exports increased from US$200,000 in 2008 to US$3.5 million in 2013, which means an accumulated growth of 1677 percent.
Meanwhile Vice President of Aliments Tousain Inc., Salpy Markarian, pointed out that Peruvian cacao is not being marketed in large quantities yet, but she recognized its high quality.
"Thanks to the Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Peru, this product can enter our market at a low price, which creates a competitive advantage that makes us turn our attention to Peru," she added.
It should be pointed out that Peru is the second largest producer of organic cacao and accounts for 60% of the existing cacao varieties in the world; housing an incredible biodiversity and genetic variability.
In late 2013, cacao joined the growing list of Peruvian flagship products due to its origin, distinctive features and comparative advantages.
(END) JCC/RMB
Published: 8/3/2014