Fungus attack can make Peru lose 1/3 of the 2012/13 coffee harvest

Coffee production in Peru in the current season 2012/13 will be lower than expected, since the fungus “roya” affects more than a third of the country’s crops. According to the National Coffee Board of the country, around 130 000 hectares, a total of 415 000 hectares, are infected with the disease.
Anner Roman, president of the Chamber, believes that the fungus will spread even more plantings. "It is likely that the affected area will grow to 40% or even 50% of the total. The attack this season is out of control, "he said. According to Roman Anner, the outbreak is due to climate change and the inappropriate use of fertilizers.
The expectation is that Peru produces 6 million bags of 46 pounds this year, down from the 7.5 million bags provided earlier. According to the Chamber, the attack of the fungus will result in a loss of about $ 135 million.
Peru is among the ten largest producers of coffee in the world. The fungus "roya" also has devastated crops in other Latin American countries. Last week, Guatemala predicted a 40% drop in exports of the commodity in season 2013/14, due to the disease.
Source: Dow Jones