PRO*ACT Crop Update: Weather jolts Mexican asparagus, Peru picks up slack
PRO*ACT Crop Update: Weather jolts Mexican asparagus, Peru picks up slack
What was shaping up to be a strong fall start for asparagus out of Mexico has been tempered by unexpected weather. Tropical Storm Mario brought surprise rainfall across several production regions, especially near Ciudad Constitución, Baja California Sur, resulting in a rapid end to older fields and lower yields on new ones.
Harvest numbers in that area were 35 to 50 percent lower than originally projected, and supply was further constrained due to interstate closures. While there was concern that this might result in a sudden flush of product, Mexican import volume has remained relatively steady but lower than projections.
In Northern Baja California, the season continues to wind down, with most shippers expecting to finish by the second week of October. Sizing in this region is still leaning standard and large, with limited small, extra-large and jumbo packs.
Farther east, early fields are beginning to harvest near Sonoyta and Hermosillo, Sonora, although slower than expected. These areas also saw some rainfall from Tropical Storm Mario, but growers are still assessing any potential impact. If conditions hold, Sonora will produce through December and help stabilize fall supply. Much of this product is already committed to contracts, which could keep the spot market tighter than usual through October and November.
In Peru, most of the volume bound for the U.S. is coming from the Ica region in the south, where growing conditions have been ideal. Quality is excellent, with firm tips and clean spears. The La Libertad region in northern Peru is also harvesting, but cooler temperatures and cloudy skies are slowing progress. The northern crop is expected to peak between late November and January, which will align well with Caborca’s season in Mexico.
While supply is gradually improving, high demand and elevated freight costs are still influencing how much Peruvian product arrives in the U.S. Some product is being diverted to other global markets due to stronger pricing and air freight premiums, especially from competing commodities like blueberries.
Looking ahead, asparagus supply will be sufficient heading into the holiday push, but availability will depend on how quickly Sonora builds steam and whether Peru’s northern region can hit its forecasted volumes. For now, sizing and quality are strong, and pricing is showing signs of relief.
Joey Piedimonte, sourcing manager at PRO*ACT LLC, leverages over a decade of produce industry experience to lead teams, manage key vendor relationships and simplify complex challenges. He is dedicated to growth, strong partnerships and supporting the agricultural community.
