Small Quinoa Producers Conquer US and European Markets

The production of quinoa from Taraco, Puno region, destined for agro-export, has been conquering important international markets, among which the United States and Europe stand out, according to Sierra y Selva Exportadora.

He argued that small producers found a sustainable income in Andean grains and dairy products.

The district mayor of Taraco, David Parisuaña Apaza, explained that to promote the economic development of his population, the Andean grains project was implemented in 2019, which constituted the Qori Quinua Taraco Ltda. agrarian cooperative and that already has 650 small organized producers. .

“In 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, the cooperative managed to connect around 160 tons of quinoa to the international market, and this year, through organic certification, approximately 350 tons of quinoa are being sent to markets in the United States. United States and Europe referred.

He added that another project that is being developed is the improvement of capacities for the modernization of dairy production and marketing in the Taraco district, which is improving technology in managing the population of dairy cattle and implementing good manufacturing practices. in the transformation of derivatives.

He indicated that in this way they achieve a profitable and sustainable activity, developing technical and productive capacities in more than 2,000 beneficiaries of that district.

As an example of the implementation of the productive projects, Néstor Humpire Estofanero, president of the Qori Quinua Agrarian Cooperative, highlighted that the unity of the associated producers, with the support of the local and national authorities, allows obtaining positive results that favor the residents directly.

Products with innovation

Within the framework of the presentation of two productive projects for small producers, the executive president of Sierra and Selva Exportadora, Carlos Talavera Flores, highlighted the successful experiences in the production of Andean grains and dairy products in the Taraco district of the Puno region.

“In our journey through the different communities and in the particular case of the Taraco district, we have seen that producers are getting involved in innovation and agricultural extension, which has repercussions on the quality and improvement of their yields, facilitating advantageous access to markets. with quality products and competitive prices”, mentioned.

Talavera also confirmed that the entity he chairs will continue to support the provision of information for commercial articulation, as well as the strengthening of some of its production plants.