Peruvian food shipments, particularly from the fishing and aquaculture sector, are making significant strides in Southeast Asian markets. According to the Exporters Association (Adex), exports to countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar amounted to USD 54.14 million in the first quarter of this year. While this figure represents a 12.2% decrease compared to the same period in 2023, it underscores the vast commercial potential of the region.

Strategic Trade Missions

To capitalize on this potential, a trade mission spearheaded by the Embassy of Peru in Malaysia, the ASEAN Trade Office (Promperú), and the export business union is currently underway. This mission aims to strengthen market entry into Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand, running through June 1.

The delegation includes representatives from seven Peruvian companies: Alisur, Quality Supplier Foods, Agroindustrias Osho, Fernández SAC, FST Group, Glint, and SK Organic Fruits. Their offerings span a range of products including proteins and oils from Sacha Inchi and chia, maca powder, lucuma powder, camu camu powder, quinoa, cocoa derivatives, cereals, and chia seeds. Notably, the fishing and aquaculture sector showcases products such as shrimp, mahi mahi, hake, squid rings, fan shells, octopus, and squid, available either whole or in frozen bags.

Market Preferences and Trends

Claudia Solano Oré, Adex Agroexports Manager, highlights the growing preference in Southeast Asia for natural, fresh, healthy, and organic products. This trend is driven by increasing health and wellness awareness among consumers. Additionally, there is a rising demand for ready-to-eat products catering to busy lifestyles. Southeast Asia is also witnessing a surge in the consumption of premium beverages, superfoods, and gourmet foods, fueled by rising purchasing power and greater exposure to global cultures.

The mission commenced in Malaysia on May 20 with a business conference, followed by visits to major supermarkets such as Jaya Grocer and Aeon. The delegation will then proceed to Vietnam on May 23 and 24 for similar activities, concluding their tour in Thailand on May 28 at the Thaifex Anuga 2024 fair.

Export Performance

From January to March this year, total shipments to Southeast Asia reached USD 142.1 million, reflecting a 9.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Malaysia and Thailand emerged as the primary destinations, accounting for 72.1% of total exports. The shipment data, excluding Brunei Darussalam and Laos, indicated a diversified export portfolio. Primary exports, led by mining, fishing, and traditional agriculture, totaled USD 67.6 million, showing a 17.3% increase. Non-traditional exports, including agribusiness and fishing for direct human consumption, amounted to USD 74.5 million, marking a 2.8% rise.