Nearly all of the fresh asparagus in the U.S. is imported. In 2024, for example, the U.S. imported 515.4 million pounds of asparagus, valued at $646.7 million. Of that, almost 155 million pounds (30%) came from Peru.
Though Mexico claims the title of the largest exporter of asparagus to the U.S. — representing roughly two-thirds of U.S. asparagus imports — Peru’s unique location and climate gives it an interesting asparagus superpower over the competition.
Southern Specialties of Pompano Beach, FL notes Peru is an important source of both green and white fresh asparagus because it provides consistent volume of high-quality product almost year-round. The company is a grower, importer, processor and shipper dealing in Peruvian asparagus.
The majority of Mexican imports happen from January to May, according to data from the International Fresh Produce Association.
When it comes to Peru, it also has a constant presence in the market, which only reduces when Mexico reaches its peak production,” the group noted in a late 2024 report. It also pointed out Michigan, the largest domestic producer of asparagus, has a short season from May to June.
Simply put, Peru supplies the U.S. consumer with quality asparagus during a time U.S. is not in production.