Peru economy sees surge in mining revenue and trade surplus

Peru's economy is showing significant strength in its export and mining sectors. The Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP) reported that the country achieved a trade surplus of $9.547 billion in the second quarter of 2026, marking 24 consecutive quarters of positive results. This growth was driven by a 35.2% increase in export value, fueled by high international prices and increased volumes of gold and copper.

In the mining sector, the Ministry of Energy and Mines reported that fiscal revenue rose by 80.1% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, reaching 22.787 billion soles. This surge is attributed to favorable metal prices and strong operational performance, with metallic mining accounting for 85.3% of the total collected.

Agricultural exports also saw notable success, specifically in table grapes, which reached 706,379 tons for the 2025-2026 campaign, a 23.6% increase. Major destinations included the United States, the Netherlands, and Mexico.

Despite this economic growth, challenges remain. An Institute of Peruvian Economics (IPE) study noted that while mining has multiplied the economy in southern regions like Moquegua and Tacna, these resources have not always translated into improved quality of life due to local government execution limitations. Additionally, the agricultural sector faces ongoing risks from climate variability and the El Niño phenomenon.