Peru’s Business News reported that according to data provided by the Peruvian Exporters Association, Peru’s alpaca exports reached US$64.3 million in 2008, a year-on-year increase of 274%. Among the 76 export destination countries, Italy is the largest buyer, reaching 13 million US dollars, followed by the United States with 11 million US dollars, and Chinese imports account for 15% of Peru’s total exports.
Peruvian alpaca wool is attractive for its unique texture, ease of dyeing, and ease of processing. Exported alpaca fiber is mainly carded and combed wool, followed by natural combed wool yarn.
Peru’s “Business Daily” reported that due to the impact of the international financial crisis, foreign buyers began to significantly reduce imports, and the domestic purchase price dropped sharply, from 14 soles per pound to 4 soles, and purchases almost stopped. Farmers are facing a survival crisis.
As the Peru-US Free Trade Agreement comes into effect, Peruvian exporters are hoping to increase exports to the United States.
