Global trade leader DP World has solidified its position as the primary gateway for Peru's agricultural exports, handling an impressive 60% of the country's avocado shipments through the Port of Callao during the 2025 season. This strategic operation underscores the growing importance of efficient logistics in connecting South American producers with international markets, including Canada.
Record-Breaking Avocado Volumes
Between January and September 2025, DP World's South Pier Terminal managed 22,600 TEUs of avocados, representing the majority share of Peru's total avocado exports. This record volume highlights Callao's crucial role as Peru's main export hub for fresh produce and demonstrates the scalability of modern port operations.
The financial impact of these operations is equally significant. DP World handled $438.3 million worth of avocado exports measured on a Free on Board basis, accounting for the bulk of the $736.8 million in total avocado trade moving through Callao during the same period.
Peru's Growing Global Presence
Peru has firmly established itself as the world's second-largest exporter of avocados, trailing only Mexico. This achievement stems from robust global demand and increasingly sophisticated logistics networks. According to the Association of Producers and Exporters of Hass Avocado of Peru (ProHass), national avocado exports reached 690,000 metric tons in 2025, marking a substantial 37% increase from the previous season.
The Port of Callao's performance metrics show consistent growth. In 2024, a total of 32,400 TEUs of avocados moved through the port, with DP World managing half of that volume. By late September 2025, throughput had accelerated to 37,678 TEUs, with DP World continuing to handle the majority share.
Strategic Leadership and Market Reach
Carlos Merino, CEO for DP World in Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, emphasized the strategic importance of these operations. "This performance reaffirms Callao's leadership as a key logistics center for the export of Peruvian avocados to international markets," Merino stated. "At DP World, we are proud to help this emblematic product of Peruvian agriculture reach consumers around the world efficiently and safely – strengthening the country's agro-export value chain and contributing to national competitiveness."
The distribution network for Peruvian avocados spans global markets, with Europe receiving 67.5% of exports, followed by North America at 15.35%. South America accounted for 7.75%, while Asian markets imported 7.71%. Smaller percentages went to Central America (1.28%) and Africa (0.40%).
Expanding Beyond Ocean Freight
DP World's leadership in agricultural logistics now extends to air cargo operations. Last month, the company successfully coordinated its first dedicated charter flights carrying more than 400 tons of freshly harvested blueberries from Chiclayo and Trujillo to New York. This operation marked DP World's entry into air freight logistics in Peru, integrating cold-chain handling, freight forwarding, and comprehensive value-added services for exporters.
With advanced port infrastructure, digitalized cargo operations, and specialized cold-chain capabilities, DP World continues to play a critical role in connecting Peruvian producers to global markets. This supports the long-term growth and resilience of Peru's agricultural economy while ensuring reliable supply chains for international consumers, including those in Canada who benefit from fresh, high-quality avocados year-round.
