ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Aruba Explores Fresh Produce Imports from Peru following a meeting between Prime Minister Mike Eman and Gabriel Amaro Zamora, president of the Asociación de Gremios de Productores Agrarios del Perú (AGAP), to discuss expanding trade in fresh fruits and vegetables between the two countries.
The meeting took place this week at the residence of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lima, Peru, where both sides explored opportunities to supply Aruba with a wider range of fresh agricultural products directly from Peru.
Expanding Agricultural Trade
According to the statement, discussions focused on strengthening commercial ties by increasing the direct import of fresh produce to Aruba.
AGAP represents Peru’s leading agricultural producers, processors, traders, exporters, and industry associations. The organization promotes agricultural production and exports while supporting Peru’s position as a global supplier of high-quality agricultural products.
Gabriel Amaro said the meeting provided an important opportunity to better understand Aruba’s market and identify the island’s agricultural needs.
“The meeting was very important to learn more about Aruba’s market and the possibility of supplying it directly from Peru with our agricultural products,” Amaro said.
Identifying Demand in Aruba
During the discussions, both delegations identified demand for several fresh products, including:
- Blueberries
- Grapes
- Fresh fruits
- Fresh vegetables
According to Amaro, Aruba’s demand is driven not only by its residents but also by its tourism industry.
He noted that the island’s hotel sector requires a consistent supply of fresh, high-quality food products to serve visitors throughout the year.
Evaluating Future Trade Opportunities
Amaro said there is genuine potential to expand trade in fresh produce between Peru and Aruba.
However, he explained that future exports would require a detailed assessment of:
- Market demand
- Seasonal availability of products
- Required supply volumes
- Import logistics
He stated that AGAP is seeking to expand Peru’s international markets and views Aruba as an attractive destination for agricultural exports.
According to Amaro, understanding Aruba’s purchasing patterns and product requirements will help determine the most efficient supply strategy.
Logistics and Supply Chain Considerations
The meeting also addressed logistical factors involved in establishing a more direct supply chain.
Participants discussed the need to evaluate:
- Transportation routes
- Cargo capacity
- Shipping logistics
- Import conditions for fresh produce
According to the statement, advances in international trade and transportation have created new opportunities, although logistical and commercial challenges still need to be addressed before expanding exports.
Peru’s Position as an Agricultural Exporter
Amaro highlighted Peru’s strong position in global agriculture, describing the country as one of the world’s leading exporters of fresh produce.
According to AGAP, Peru is:
- A global leader in fresh produce exports
- The world’s second-largest exporter of avocados
- Among the leading exporters of fresh and frozen mangoes
- One of the principal exporters of fresh and frozen asparagus
The country’s agricultural sector currently supplies products to more than 150 countries worldwide.
According to the statement, Peru’s export capacity and its geographic proximity to Aruba could create opportunities to diversify the island’s supply of fresh fruits and vegetables while strengthening commercial ties between the two countries.
First Step Toward Stronger Cooperation
The meeting between Prime Minister Mike Eman and Gabriel Amaro was described as an important first step toward connecting Aruba’s market demand with Peru’s agricultural production and export capabilities.
According to the statement, continued discussions could lead to stronger trade relations, a more direct supply chain for fresh produce, and new business opportunities benefiting both Aruba and Peru.
