The state of Sinaloa ranks fifth nationally in primary production, with a volume of 12.8 million tons, of which its agricultural production accounts for 94.5%.
The municipalities with the greatest planted area are Guasave and Ahome; both with a 17.1% percentage, equivalent to 196,000 hectares, which are mostly devoted to annual crops (grains and vegetables) and only 6.4% belong to perennial crops.
Due to the low prices paid for corn, the main crop in the region, which in 2018 oscillated at 3,360 pesos per ton, and the constant increase in production costs, producers look for other alternatives to continue planting, such as asparagus.
The little rain, many hours of sun, sandy soils, and extreme temperatures in the northern part of the state of Sinaloa make it an ideal place to grow this crop. Mexico is the third biggest producer of asparagus in the world and this crop, which is gradually opening its way in the national market, is exported almost entirely. In 2018, Sonora, Guanajuato, Baja California, and Baja California Sur accounted for 97% of the national offer. Currently, Sinaloa barely participates with 0.3%, equivalent to 870 tons per year.
Given the situation that currently prevails in the grain market, Sinaloa producers have found themselves in need of diversifying their crops and looking for crops that provide greater profitability. Asparagus cultivation represents a real option to improve their income.
Source: Fresh Plaza
