The market for pitayas is growing exponentially as the fruit establishes itself as a leading product in major regions like Europe. The fruit is known for its distinct taste and health benefits, this fruit has experienced an increase of 202% of global consumption between 2024-2024. There are an expected steady growth rate in the near future. With this in mind, Peru is seeking to establish its self as a major pitaya suppliers within Latin America, competing with nations like Ecuador.
Pitahayas Baleno, one of the top Peruvian businesses in this industry was able to sell 36 tons of products in its initial production period of 2024. This was accompanied by the CIF amount of 126,000 USD. “For 2025, we’ve made a commitment to exceeding 300 tons, and an FOB worth of 840,000 dollars. This is in the wake of our growing market and involvement in international exhibitions,” says Juan Diego Vargas who is the head of business intelligence for the company. for business intelligence. To reach this goal, Baleno has implemented innovations including the installation of LED lights that allows them to extend the season of harvesting by five to eight months.
Peruvian pitaya is offered for sale at a price FOB of 12 dollars for a four kilogram box. However, the amount can be different based on the needs of the customer. But, the high costs of logistics including air transportation required to maintain freshness of the fruits, are the biggest problem. To minimize these expenses, Pitahayas Baleno negotiates in advance with freight forwarders in order to obtain affordable prices, and also to provide attractive prices for international purchasers.
But, there are issues. Insufficient phytosanitary regulations hinders the current export of Peruvian pitayas to America. U.S. market; an issue The company is hoping to resolve soon. “Competing against Ecuador within this market in the United States would be a huge step for us considering that the country exports 60 percent of its production to the U.S. market. We’re striving to make this dream something that happens next year,” says Vargas.
Believing in the importance of sustainable development, Pitahayas Baleno has certifications like GlobalGAP and Grasp and plans to get an organic certificate in 2025. These measures aim to guarantee the quality of the product while also meeting the growing demands of environmentally-conscious consumers.
The firm also has expansion plans in the coming years. Alongside pitaya it’s considering expanding into other products with high value, including blueberry and avocado that already have a strong market presence in Peru. “We keep a keen check on trends around the world and are prepared to make the most of emerging opportunities,”” states Vargas.
The development of the pitaya business is having an effect upon the Peruvian economy, creating jobs and establishing the country as a major actor in the international agriculture sector. While challenges like logistical expenses and the effects of climate change, as demonstrated through the impacts of Cyclone Yaku has put the producers to the test, firms such as Pitahayas Baleno demonstrate resilience and the ability to innovate.
“Cyclone Yaku had a significant effect on pitaya cultivation in the northern region of Peru. The storm caused floods of the roads and made it challenging to access all the supplies required for treatment and maintenance of the plant quickly. This led to was a delay in the development and growth of the plants and took a heavy toll on the production expected for this season.” Says Vargas.
For more information:
Juan Diego Vargas
Pitahayas Baleno
Tel. : +51 980 488 201
[email protected]
https://pitahayasbaleno.com/