Peru's coffee export turnover is likely to hit US$ 800 million this year, as a large part of the crops are still affected by the coffee fungus known as roya or leaf rust, the National Coffee Board (JNC) reported Tuesday.
"Although prices have rebounded, there is still a low coffee production, especially in the center and south of the Andean country," said Anner Roman, JNC's President in statements to Andina news agency.
He continued, "Despite this situation, the Peruvian regions of Cajamarca and Amazonas are experiencing an upturn in production".
Likewise, Roman noted the Andean nation is expected to produce 4.8 million quintals of coffee this year, of which 4,5 million will be exported, generating revenues of up to US$ 800 million.
In February, the Peruvian Agriculture and Irrigation Ministry (Minagri) projected an coffee output of 5.4 million quintals.
According to the country's National Agricultural Health Service (SENASA), about 270,000 hectares were seriously affected by the leaf rust, of which 97,000 need to be renewed.
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Published: 5/20/2014