Strawberry Expo brings Caaguazú growers together to strengthen sales

About 30 strawberry growers have gathered in Caaguazú for the sixth Strawberry Expo, an event designed to bring producers closer to consumers and give fresh fruit and strawberry-based products a direct route to market.

The fair began Friday and concludes Saturday at Plaza La Libertad. It brings together growers from four organizations in Potrero Guayaqui, Arroyos Guasu and other communities in the western part of the Caaguazú district, with support from the Directorate of Agricultural Extension, known as DEAG.

DEAG technician Andrés Céspedes said the initiative began six years ago as a marketing space that could also become a family celebration. “We have been taking on this challenge for six years, with the expectation of reaching consumers,” Céspedes said. The program includes raffles, training sessions, recreational activities and entertainment for visitors.

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We have been taking on this challenge for six years, with the expectation of reaching consumers.

Strawberry farming has a long history in the area. Residents of Potrero Guayaqui say the first plants arrived around the 1970s, while some families have cultivated strawberries for more than 35 years. More producers have since entered the sector because it offers an alternative source of production and income. DEAG provides organized producers with technical assistance, mainly through associations and committees.

Among the exhibitors is Amalia Leiva, a grower from Arroyos Guasu who has worked with strawberries for more than 35 years. “With strawberries, I was able to raise my children,” she said, describing the income as fundamental to her family. Leiva added that this is the first time the growers have been able to sell directly through a fair, an experience she said has proved profitable.

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With strawberries, I was able to raise my children.