Peruvian ginger, renowned for its high concentration of gingerol and the intensity of its flavor, continues to gain ground on the international market despite the difficulties encountered. Exporters face challenges such as price volatility, shortage of raw materials and changing demand.
“Peruvian organic ginger stands out for its medicinal properties and its role in the functional food industry,” explains Marco Salas Cueva, general director and partner of Jalhuca Amazonia. “This product, exported mainly to Europe and the United States, is suitable for markets that appreciate both its quality and its impact on health. However, recent years have been marked by price volatility and limited supply, which affects exporters. »
“Peruvian exporters face a price war initially due to competition for limited raw material,” explains Marco Salas. “Shortages create fierce competition in Peru, where many exporters do not have their own fields and rely on agreements with producers, who are often affected by high prices. To remedy this, we have strengthened our production with our own fields which guarantee the supply and quality of the product. »
The European market, which represents 60% of exports, was more sensitive to price variations, while the United States, the main importer of Peruvian ginger with 40%, proved more dynamic and less prone to fluctuations, according to Mr. Salas. “The United States absorbed the high prices of recent seasons more quickly, which allowed us to expand our presence on both coasts of the United States,” explains the producer and exporter.
“Export prices have fluctuated between 25 and almost 40 dollars per box this season, a figure which, while representing a challenge for importers, remains essential to maintain the viability of Peruvian exporting companies, which often have to buy at high prices on the ground and selling with increasingly limited margins. In addition, the shortage of refrigerated containers and the increase in freight rates, which have increased by up to 50% in some destinations, have further complicated logistics, although we were able to overcome these obstacles thanks to our strong reputation with shipping companies and logistics operators,” says Marco Salas.
Ginger cultivation has been included this year in public aid programs and programs such as Procompite aim to strengthen the competitiveness of the sector, so that Peru can have in the years to come a more stable exportable supply and the same quality that has allowed it to rank among the leading suppliers of ginger in the world. Additionally, Jalhuca is diversifying its product portfolio with crops such as Hass avocado and pitaya, in order to expand its offerings in the future.
Blending ginger with fruits into functional juices has increased its global consumption, especially in the US market. “Peruvian ginger is valued for its immunological benefits, and combining it in drinks with orange or carrot makes it more appealing to consumers less accustomed to its intense spiciness,” says Salas.
With an expected closing season similar to last year (50-60 containers) and plans to expand into new markets such as the UK and Canada, Peruvian ginger continues to demonstrate its ability to s adapt and thrive in a competitive global market, according to Marco Salas. “Our goal is clear: to be a reliable and responsible supplier, capable of meeting the expectations of our customers and the market in terms of quality and sustainability.”
For more information:
Marco Salas Cueva, general director and partner
Jalhuca Amazonia S.A.C.
Such. : +51 949 620 606
[email protected]
www.jalhuca.com
