Alpaca National Day: Everything you need to know about Peru's treasure

Peru is the world's largest alpaca fiber producer, making it a vital part of the country's economy.

Every August 1, Peru celebrates National Alpaca Day, established by Ministerial Resolution No. 429-2012-AG from the Ministry of Agriculture. This special day honors the significance of this emblematic animal in the country's culture and economy. Alpacas are treasured not only for their fine, soft wool, used in the textile industry to create high-quality garments but also for their essential role in the lives of Andean communities.

On this special day, a variety of activities are organized, including parades, exhibitions, and craft fairs. These events aim to promote and preserve the ancestral traditions associated with alpaca breeding and to highlight their contribution to sustainable development and rural tourism in the high Andean regions.

Photograph: Studio Sabático

ALPACA FOR THE WHOLE WORLD

Exports of alpaca products reached USD 214 million in 2023, a 14.5 % increase compared to the same period in 2022. Finished garments accounted for USD 46 million, making up 22 % of the total exports.

According to the Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Exports and Tourism (PROMPERU), a total of 314 companies exported 72 finished alpaca products to 45 markets. The three main destination markets for alpaca garments are the United States, Germany, and Switzerland.

Photograph: Shutterstock

THE PERUVIAN FORCE

This animal is a vital source of income for thousands of families in the Andean regions of Peru. As the world's largest producer of alpaca fiber, Peru's supply chain involves over 120,000 families. These families have lived in harmony with the alpacas and their environment for generations, preserving and passing down ancestral techniques.

The alpaca production chain in Peru is a complex process that includes everything from breeding and shearing alpacas to creating finished products. This process involves multiple actors and stages, each crucial for ensuring the quality and sustainability of both the products and the industry itself.

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THE MOST SOUGHT-AFTER

Highly valued for its softness, durability, and thermal properties, alpaca fiber products have become highly sought-after in the global market.

Garments such as sweaters, cardigans, ponchos, and coats are among the most sought-after products. For instance, in the Belgian market, the most sought-after items are wool and fine hair sweaters, followed by shawls, scarves, and wraps. In the Netherlands, wool and fine hair sweaters also top the list, according to figures from PROMPERU.

Photograph: Shutterstock

THE INTEGRATION OF PERÚ MODA DECO & ALPACA FIESTA

Alpaca has made its mark in major fashion capitals, including New York (USA), where it was featured during Perú Moda Deco in late May 2024. It also had a presence in Paris (France) at the Premiere Vision fair in early July, and it is set to appear in Japan at the Fashion World Tokyo fair in October.

In Peru, both public and private sector initiatives are underway to position alpaca fiber in international markets with high-quality textile products. As part of these efforts, two of the most emblematic events in the textile sector, Perú Moda Deco and Alpaca Fiesta, will be held together for the first time from October 21 to 26 in the city of Arequipa, the cradle of alpaca textile craftsmanship.

By organizing these events together, Peru Moda Deco and Alpaca Fiesta maximize business and networking opportunities, linking the alpaca production chain with the commercial exposure of the industry. This initiative aims to connect Peruvian companies with international markets across the USA, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Oceania, fostering business opportunities and supporting their internationalization. The event will also feature academic, cultural, and fashion activities to complement the trade show.

Through Alpaca Day, the cultural heritage of Andean communities is honored, and a sustainable future is promoted for an industry that is vital to Peru.