Country Info >> Peru

Peru's economy reflects its varied geography - an arid coastal region, the Andes further inland, and tropical lands bordering Colombia and Brazil. Abundant mineral resources are found in the mountainous areas, and Peru's coastal waters provide excellent fishing grounds. However, overdependence on minerals and metals subjects the economy to fluctuations in world prices, and a lack of infrastructure deters trade and investment. After several years of inconsistent economic performance, the Peruvian economy grew by more than 4% per year during the period 2002-06, with a stable exchange rate and low inflation. Growth jumped to 7.5% in 2007, driven by higher world prices for minerals and metals. Risk premiums on Peruvian bonds on secondary markets reached historically low levels in late 2004, reflecting investor optimism regarding the government's prudent fiscal policies and openness to trade and investment. Despite the strong macroeconomic performance, underemployment and poverty have stayed persistently high. Growth prospects depend on exports of minerals, textiles, and agricultural products, and by expectations for the Camisea natural gas megaproject and for other promising energy projects.

Source:  CIA-The World Factbook

Per Capita GDP
$7,600 as of (2007 est.) Source: CIA-The World Factbook

Main-Line Phones
2,332,000 as of (2006) Source: CIA-The World Factbook

Mobile Phones
8,500,000 as of (2006) Source: CIA-The World Factbook

Internet Users
6,100,000 as of (2006) Source: CIA-The World Factbook

Cable TV Households
700,000 as of (2007) Source: LMS est.

Time Zone Vs. Eastern Time (New York, Miami)
same as EST (during Daylight Standard Time)