The seed sector in Peru has taken a significant step towards its modernization and consolidation by signing a framework agreement between the Peruvian Seed Association (APESemillas) and the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI).
Signed on September 24, 2024, this agreement aims to strengthen the production of high-quality seeds, thus seeking to make Peru a world leader in seed exports.
A Milestone for Seed Quality in Peru
The agreement establishes a cooperation framework that will promote the use of certified seeds, improve regulations and strengthen the National Seed Authority’s institutional capacity.
Angel Manero, Minister of Agrarian Development and Irrigation, stressed the importance of this alliance to increase agricultural productivity. “Having quality seeds is essential for improving crop yields, and this agreement allows us to work towards the creation of a private market that provides high quality seeds to small producers,” highlighted Manero during the signing of the agreement.
One of the key points of the agreement is the modernization of the General Seed Law. According to the minister, Congress and the Agrarian Commission are working to achieve the necessary changes in the law before the end of the year, which could further boost the competitiveness of the seed sector. “We see enormous potential in this sector, which currently exports more than US$90 million and could reach US$400 million in the next few years,” he added.
Increased Use of Certified Seeds
Luis Burgos, president of APESemillas, also participated in the ceremony and highlighted the impact that this agreement will have on small farmers, who will now have more access to quality seeds.
“The use of certified seeds is crucial in increasing crop profitability. Our goal is for more than 45% of Peru’s cropland to use these seeds, which is a significant leap from the current 15%,” said Burgos.
The agreement also covers the promotion of contra-season hybrid seeds, allowing Peru to take advantage of its favorable climatic conditions compared to countries in the northern hemisphere. Thanks to this strategy, the country has already exported seeds to markets such as the Netherlands, the United States and Germany, generating revenues of US$91 million by 2023.
Regional Impact and Global Opportunities
The importance of this agreement is not limited to Peruvian borders. Boosting high-quality seed production positions Peru as a key player in the regional and international seed market.
Burgos explained that the sector has the potential to export up to US$200 million in the coming years, with a focus on sustainability and the inclusion of small producers in the production chain. “This agreement will not only improve agricultural productivity in Peru, but can also serve as a model for other Latin American countries,” he said.
In addition, the agreement strengthens regional trade by offering countries with climatic constraints in the northern hemisphere the opportunity to purchase Peruvian seeds during their dormant seasons.
“Peru can become the region’s leading seed exporter if we take full advantage of climatic conditions and local talent in research and development,” Manero concluded.
A Model of Public-Private Collaboration
The signing of this agreement marks an example of how collaboration between the public and private sectors can boost agricultural competitiveness and sustainability. The joint work between MIDAGRI and APESemillas not only ensures better regulation and quality control in seed production but also promotes research and technological innovation.
Strengthening the National Seed Authority will be key to ensuring that the seeds produced and marketed in the country meet the highest international standards. In this regard, Manero stated, “This agreement puts us in a privileged position to compete in the international market and generate quality jobs in the agricultural sector.
A Promising Future for Peruvian Agriculture
The agreement between MIDAGRI and APESemillas represents a crucial step forward that will benefit both small producers and the Peruvian economy. With this agreement, the country not only strengthens its seed production and export capacity but also moves towards a more sustainable and globally competitive agricultural development model.
Expectations are high and the results of this agreement could mark the beginning of a new era for agriculture in Peru, consolidating the country as a leader in the production and export of high-quality seeds in the region.
