Inacal approves new quality requirements for artichoke agroexportation

Artichokes are a strategic crop for the Peruvian agro-industry, especially in regions such as Ica, Arequipa, and La Libertad, which account for more than 88% of national production. In this context, the National Institute of Quality (Inacal), an agency attached to the Ministry of Production, approved the update of the Peruvian Technical Standard (NTP) 209.453:2012, revised in 2025, “ARTICHOKES. Raw material for processed products. Requirements”. This technical standard applies to both spineless artichoke varieties (hearts) and prickly Creole artichokes (bottoms), with the aim of raising the quality standards of this fresh vegetable after it has been harvested and conditioned, intended for industrial processing and export. Artichokes form part of the key portfolio of national agro-exports. In 2024 alone, Peru exported 53,348 tons, worth US$ 148.4 million, representing a growth of 12% in volume and 8% in value compared to 2023, according to the Agrarian News Agency. Artichoke ...