Tumbes Region’s Export Growth
The Tumbes region in Peru is experiencing a remarkable recovery in its export activities in 2025. According to the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur), between January and September of this year, total exports from Tumbes reached an impressive $87 million. This figure marks an 11% increase compared to the same period in the previous year, signaling a resurgence in the region’s economic performance.
Key Drivers: The Prawn Industry
This substantial growth is primarily driven by a rebound in prawn shipments, one of Tumbes’ key export products. With global demand for prawns increasing, local producers are benefiting from both improved export conditions and strategic government support.
Government Initiatives and Public-Private Partnership
César Llona, the Vice Minister of Foreign Trade, has spearheaded initiatives aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Tumbes’ export production chains. During a recent meeting with local authorities and export sector representatives, progress in foreign trade was reviewed, emphasizing the importance of sustaining this growth trajectory.
Significant discussions during the meeting included identifying challenges in productivity, certification processes, and improved connectivity. Llona also collaborated with leaders from prioritized chains, including Cocoa, Banana, and Lemon.
Strengthening Productive Capacities
Mincetur has committed to bolstering the organizational and productive capacities of key actors in these prioritized chains. The focus will be on promoting collaboration and training efforts to improve business management and facilitate access to the necessary certifications for export.
Innovating Market Strategies
Moreover, efforts are underway to create added value in products to tap into new market opportunities and enhance the competitive position of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Tumbes.
To operationalize these objectives, Mincetur has rolled out the Export Productive Route. This initiative provides tailored services depending on the level of export development of organizations, ensuring effective use of resources while expanding outreach to regional businesses.
Regional Economic Development
Vice Minister Llona stressed the vital need for coordination between public and private sectors to secure sustained economic development in Tumbes and beyond. Mincetur has reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the Regional Government, municipalities, business associations, and other stakeholders.
The goal is to foster a conducive environment for foreign trade and tourism, recognized as key drivers of growth for the region. These initiatives reflect the government’s overarching policy to ensure regional economic recovery and integration into global markets.
In conclusion, the small crustacean, the prawn, is more than just a local delicacy; it has become a pivotal player in Tumbes’ economic revival and an example of how strategic partnerships and government support can stimulate regional development and prosperity.