2025 Peru Quinoa Export Market Outlook

Peru is one of the world’s leading quinoa producers, with a long history of cultivation, particularly in the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains. These areas offer unique environmental advantages—such as high elevation, abundant sunlight, and significant day-night temperature variations—which provide ideal growing conditions for high-quality quinoa. Peru’s quinoa production includes both traditional organic farming methods and modern large-scale cultivation. Notably, the Puno region is internationally recognized for its extensive organic quinoa production.

According to data released by Agro Perú, Peru’s quinoa exports had a strong start in the first quarter of 2025 but showed a slight slowdown in April. During that month, export volume reached 3,084 metric tons with a total value of USD 8.28 million, reflecting a year-on-year decrease of 26% in volume and 23% in value. However, despite the drop in overall volume and revenue, the average export price rose to USD 2.68 per kilogram, marking a 5% increase compared to the same period last year. This suggests that even amid global market fluctuations, demand for high-quality Peruvian quinoa remains strong.

In terms of export variety composition, white quinoa continues to dominate, accounting for 64% of total exports (1,949 tons), with a total export value of USD 5.32 million and an average price of USD 2.73/kg. Red quinoa ranked second, with a 16% share (557 tons), valued at USD 1.31 million and an average price of USD 2.36/kg. Although tricolor quinoa made up only 12% of exports (341 tons), it commanded the highest average price at USD 2.84/kg, totaling USD 967,300 in value. This indicates a rising preference among niche consumer markets for premium quinoa varieties due to their nutritional profile and visual appeal. The remaining 8% includes other varieties and blends, highlighting the increasing diversity of Peru’s export offerings.

Regarding export destinations, the United States remains Peru’s largest buyer, representing 46% of total exports. In April, the U.S. imported 1,389 tons of quinoa, valued at USD 3.8 million, at an average price of USD 2.73/kg—slightly above the overall average. Canada and Spain followed, each accounting for 5% of exports. Canada imported 160 tons (USD 420,653 at USD 2.62/kg), while Spain imported 161 tons (USD 412,939 at USD 2.56/kg).

Overall, although early Q2 exports saw some fluctuation, the increase in average prices and growing demand for high-end varieties like tricolor quinoa suggest a structural shift in Peru’s quinoa exports—from a single commodity to a more value-added, diversified portfolio. With steady demand from traditional markets like the U.S. and the price premium of specialty varieties, Peru is well-positioned for continued export growth. Looking ahead, if global health food trends remain strong and Peru continues to improve its processing capacity and product standardization, quinoa exports are expected to regain momentum and expand further in the latter half of 2025.