AGP Executive Report

Earthquakes in Peru: A 6.7-magnitude quake struck southern Peru near Aniso in Ayacucho, injuring at least three and damaging homes and schools; officials reported power cuts affecting about 9,000 properties and damage to multiple healthcare and education facilities, with tremors felt as far as Lima. More seismic alerts: A separate 7.2-magnitude quake was also reported in the same southern Andes area near Coracora, with landslides and authorities ruling out tsunami risk while assessing impacts. Defense modernization: Peru’s F-16V Block 70 fleet is set to receive L3Harris’ Viper Shield electronic warfare system as part of ongoing air force upgrades. El Niño watch: UK forecasters say this year’s El Niño could be the biggest in over a century, with major knock-on effects for South America and Peru’s weather risk. Prime Video in Peru: Prime Video plans to invest $2B+ in Latin America through 2030, expanding local originals and adding Peru to new subscription options. Food and trade: Peruvian blueberry exports rose 74% in the 2026/27 season’s early weeks, with the U.S. and Europe taking a bigger share as China’s portion fell.

Earthquake Watch: Peru was hit by a 6.7-magnitude quake in the southern Andes near Upahuacho/Parinacochas (Ayacucho), with Peru’s Geophysical Institute later putting it at 7.2; tremors were felt as far as Lima, and authorities reported at least two injuries and damage to homes, health centers and schools, while the Navy initially ruled out tsunami risk. Aftershock Response: In Coracora, the mayor said there were no fatalities and no major damage so far, but teams are still checking vulnerable adobe and calamine structures. New Government Trade Push: Prime Minister Luis Galarreta said Peru will move to bring its free-trade deal with Hong Kong into force in 2026, aiming to position the country as a trade bridge to the Asia-Pacific. El Niño Concerns: Forecasts warn El Niño could be the strongest in living memory, raising the stakes for Peru’s disaster preparedness. Mining & Markets: Demand from China is helping drive Peru exports to record highs, even as mining and logistics continue to face disruptions.

El Niño Response: The U.S. plans to send the hospital ship USNS Comfort to Peru’s Pacific coast in February 2027 to help the country prepare for El Niño impacts, with Peru’s foreign minister also outlining a roadmap for equipment, expertise and overflights. Digital Identity: Peru approved regulations for a new digital national ID (DNId) that will have the same legal status as the physical credential, with Reniec leading issuance and allowing other compliant digital wallets to join. Defense Procurement: Peru selected L3Harris’ Viper Shield electronic warfare suite for its F-16 Block 70 fleet, aiming to better counter radar and missile threats. Mining Safety: Peru’s labor inspectorate Sunafil opened an investigation into a fatal accident at the Las Bambas copper mine during pump maintenance, after two workers died and others were injured. Archaeology: Archaeologists uncovered skeletal remains at Lima’s Huaca Pucllana, believed to be a ritual offering placed in an underground ceremonial canal about 1,400 years ago.

El Niño Fallout in Peru: Heavy rains tied to El Niño disrupted access to Machu Picchu, closed the Inca Trail until Saturday, and triggered road closures from landslides, with flooding also damaging homes and services in Lima. Disaster Response: Peru’s government announced US$237mn to strengthen preparedness for El Niño rains and droughts, while U.S. support is ramping up, including a hospital ship planned for February 2027. Public Health Watch: PAHO warned measles is surging across the Americas, with Peru among the countries reporting rising case counts. Church & Amazon Focus: Pope Leo XIV’s November visit to Peru, including a stop in Pucallpa, is drawing attention from Amazon bishops who want the pope to address Amazon wounds and socioenvironmental challenges. Peru in the News Beyond Borders: A Reuters report highlights flooding impacts across Peru, while other coverage also points to Peru-linked Amazon gold and regional security concerns.

Earthquake Watch: A 4.8-magnitude quake hit Lima early Wednesday (05:28 local time), centered 42 km southwest of Lurín at 42 km depth, with Peru’s Navy and civil defense reporting no damage or tsunami risk. Disaster Preparedness: Authorities urged residents to keep an emergency plan and basic supplies due to Lima’s high seismic vulnerability. Archaeology in Lima: Excavators at Huaca Pucllana unveiled 1,400-year-old skeletal remains believed to be a ritual offering tied to a canal-and-ceremonial-pool closure, shedding new light on Lima culture practices. Defense & Industry: HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and SIMA Perú launched BAP Chimbote, the second landing support ship for the Peruvian Navy, with President Keiko Fujimori presiding; the program follows the earlier BAP Talara launch. Security & Trade: Peru’s OLCI is pushing customs modernization to curb used clothing smuggling, tracing an international chain that starts in Chile and spreads into Peru.

El Niño & Prices: A “super El Niño” is forecast to be the strongest on record, with central Pacific sea temps above 2.75°C and central bankers warning it could lift food inflation through 2027. Machu Picchu Access: Peru suspended entry to the Inca Trail network at Machu Picchu after heavy rains triggered landslides, flooding, and damage across multiple sectors; officials are assessing alternate routes through km 104 and km 106. Ritual Burial in Lima: Archaeologists at Huaca Pucllana uncovered about 1,400-year-old human remains, likely placed as an offering during a ritual closure of an underground channel; a ceramic snake’s head was also found. Fuel Protests: Early protests against soaring fuel prices erupted after President Keiko Fujimori promised a temporary transport subsidy, with transport workers blocking roads in multiple regions. Security Cooperation: Peru and the U.S. outlined a security-focused agenda, including action against transnational organized crime, border security, prison upgrades, biometric tools, and stronger police units. Foreign Affairs: Peru’s foreign minister laid a wreath at Miguel Grau’s U.S. statue, signaling continued diplomatic engagement.

FBI-Peru Crime Crackdown: The FBI joined a Peru operation targeting alleged Tren de Aragua members, with U.S. agents working alongside Peru’s GRECCO unit as Washington expands its fight against the Venezuelan gang. Peru Security Shock: A Peruvian lawyer, Helenn Giulianna Silva Padilla, was shot dead at a roadside restaurant in San Martín de Porres, Pacasmayo, with police investigating possible motives and suspects on a motorbike. Flood Emergency: Peru declared an “emergency” in parts of Lima and eight regions after torrential rains triggered flash flooding, with authorities moving to support affected areas. Agriculture Exports: Peru secured Egypt market access for fresh blueberries, now reaching 76 international markets, while Peruvian strawberry exports to the U.S. jumped 35% in the first half of 2026. Trade & Logistics: Chancay Port hit 200,000 TEU in H1 2026 (+70.9%), and Peru’s connectivity continues to grow as shipping services expand. Democracy Watch: The EU Election Observation Mission highlighted its role in Peru’s electoral process, stressing neutrality and non-interference.

Flood Emergency in Peru: President Keiko Fujimori declared an “emergency” in parts of Lima and multiple regions hit by severe flooding, citing disrupted traffic, damaged homes, and evacuations; the measure covers districts in Lima plus Tumbes, Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Áncash, Ica, Moquegua, and Arequipa. Broadband Push for Ayacucho: Gilat Peru won a $14 million Works for Taxes contract to build a fiber-optic broadband network in Ayacucho, targeting 273 public institutions (schools and health centers) across 109 localities, with delivery expected in 18 months. Amazon Mining Crackdown: Peru is stepping up enforcement against illegal gold mining as activity spreads into protected areas of the Amazon, including a military show of force. Cultural Heritage Repatriation: Canada’s RCMP helped return a 2,000-year-old Nasca-style bowl from a Montreal auction house to Peru under UNESCO rules. Peru in the News Beyond Borders: Peru is also mentioned in global rankings and stories, including gold producer standings and international media coverage.

Illegal Mining Crackdown: The Peruvian Navy carried out helicopter raids in Madre de Dios, targeting illegal gold mining that has stripped forests and left mercury-tainted pools harming wildlife and Indigenous communities. Prison Security Overhaul: Defense Minister Rafael Belaúnde Llosa says the Armed Forces will take perimeter control of prisons and border surveillance, including drones and signal-blocking systems, arguing they won’t play a “decorative” role. El Niño Pressure on Food: Corporate concern over El Niño risk is rising, while Peru’s mango blossoms could see yields drop up to 60% and anchovy fishing has been suspended/curtailed as juvenile catches flood nets. Broadband for Ayacucho: Gilat Peru signed a $14M Works for Taxes deal to build a fiber-optic network linking 109 localities and 273 public institutions in southern Ayacucho. Agriculture Exports: Peru secured fresh blueberry access to Egypt, expanding to 76 markets; meanwhile, Peru’s mango season outlook warns of a major production hit. Sports in Lima: The Lima Judo Grand Prix wrapped with medals across categories, including Raz Hershko winning bronze.

Judo in Lima: Mathilda Sophie Niemeyer won -78 kg gold at the Lima Grand Prix, edging France’s Fanny Estelle Posvite with a decisive waza-ari; the event also delivered an all-Italian -100 kg final as Daniele Accogli and Gennaro Pirelli set up a teammate showdown, with Pirelli taking gold. El Niño and fisheries: NASA flagged a drop in eastern Pacific phytoplankton tied to El Niño, warning of knock-on effects for marine life and fishing; Peru’s production ministry has already suspended anchovy extraction in parts of the north-central zone. Mining disruption: Endeavour Silver says its Terronera mine in Mexico was temporarily suspended after an illegal, peaceful blockade by a nearby ejido community over road maintenance, medical services, communications, water access, and financial support. Peru culture spotlight: A photographic exhibition at the National Archaeological Museum, “The Great Inca Trail. Peru: Integration and Diversity,” marks the 205th anniversary of Peru’s independence and highlights the Qhapaq Ñan network.

Peru’s El Niño readiness: Peru carried out an 8.8 quake drill off Callao after disasters in neighboring countries, with President Keiko Fujimori leading the simulation from Lima’s Plaza Mayor. Illegal mining crackdown: The military launched “Operation Mercury 2,” burning and detonating equipment at illegal gold mining camps deep in the Amazon, including in Tambopata National Park, and escorting a woman and child for questioning. Pope Leo XIV in Peru: The Vatican confirmed the Pope’s first South America apostolic visit (Nov. 6–17), including stops in Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco and Pucallpa. Security and justice: Peru’s justice system annulled the 15-year prison sentence of former first lady Nadine Heredia. Culture and sports: Lima hosted the 2026 Judo Grand Prix with Peru’s Driulys Rivas winning bronze on day two, while Taemin announced 2026–27 tour dates that include Peru. Public safety and society: Peru also announced Pope Leo XIV’s visit as a matter of national interest, and the country is moving to open the public library on Sundays for a one-year trial.

Peru Economy Watch: Peru’s economy grew 1.75% in June year-on-year, down from May’s 1.8%, as El Niño continues to weigh on activity—especially fishing. Disaster Preparedness: Peru held an earthquake simulation drill after recent quakes in neighboring Colombia and Venezuela, including a planned 8.8 quake scenario off Callao with tsunami warnings. Seismic Risk Alert: Coverage also highlights Peru’s “mega-quake” threat, with fears tied to a potential 8.8 event off Lima and Callao. Sports Spotlight (Judo): At the Lima Grand Prix, Seiko Watanabe won gold at -63 kg in a tight final, while Dena Pohl took gold at -70 kg. Culture & Religion: The Vatican announced Pope Leo XIV’s first South America apostolic visit (Nov. 6–17), including stops in Peru: Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco and Pucallpa. El Niño Update: NOAA warns El Niño has a 95% chance of becoming very strong by late 2026, raising risks for rainfall, farming and food supplies across Latin America.

Fuel Relief in Peru: President Keiko Fujimori announced a temporary subsidy for freight and passenger transport operators after fuel prices sparked protests, starting Saturday and lasting three months with support of 15%–20% depending on price swings. Disaster Preparedness: Peru also ran a national multi-hazard drill testing evacuation plans for a possible magnitude 8.8 quake off Lima and Callao, using sirens, alerts, and SISMATE messages. Justice Update: A Peruvian court annulled the 15-year prison sentence and arrest warrant tied to former first lady Nadine Heredia, extending a prior ruling that cleared her husband Ollanta Humala. Foreign Relations: Peru’s foreign minister discussed the progressive resumption of ties with Venezuela, including steps to reopen consular services. Regional Security: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington plans land strikes against drug traffickers in Latin America with partner support. Sports (Peru in focus): Peru hosted a World Judo Tour event in Lima, with home judoka winning medals, including Driulys Rivas.

Fuel Relief in Peru: President Keiko Fujimori says Peru will temporarily subsidize fuel for freight and passenger transport operators for three months, starting Saturday, with support of 15% to 20% as fuel prices surge and protests spread—after road blockades in Pucallpa and strikes in Ucayali. Disaster Preparedness: Peru also ran a major multi-hazard drill testing evacuation and response to a simulated magnitude 8.8 quake off Lima and Callao, using alerts, sirens, and staged evacuations. Security Crackdown in the Amazon: Peru’s military launched “Operation Mercury 2,” targeting illegal gold mining camps in the Amazon reserve, destroying equipment and removing people found at sites. Defense Procurement: Peru plans to buy a second batch of 12 F-16 Block 70 jets (total 24), with Defense Minister Rafael Belaunde Llosa saying funding delays mean the next contract needs time. International Spotlight: Peru declared Pope Leo XIV’s Nov. 11–17 visit a matter of national interest, setting up a high-level commission to coordinate logistics across multiple cities. Judo in Lima: Peru’s Driulys Rivas won bronze in -52 kg at the World Judo Tour in Lima, while Rafaela Rodrigues took gold over Francine Echevarria.

El Niño Response in Peru: Peru declared a state of emergency in 607 of its 1,800 municipalities, warning that El Niño-linked heat and rain could create “very high risk” for food security, with President Keiko Fujimori pushing a special commission to tackle the crisis. Weather Forecast: NOAA says there’s a >90% chance of a very strong El Niño in the Northern Hemisphere fall-winter, with a 69% chance it becomes “historic.” Fisheries & Food Supply: Peru will host an Aug. 18-19 workshop on sustainable jumbo flying squid (“pota/jibia”) with Ecuador and Chile, as 2026 catches are hit by coastal El Niño warming. Trade & Ports: DP World marked 20 years at Peru’s Port of Callao, investing about US$1 billion and now handling roughly 60% of Peru’s containerized cargo. Crime Update: Ecuador seized 469 kg of cocaine near the Colombia border, with packages stamped with football star Erling Haaland’s image.

Disaster Response in Peru: Peru declared a 60-day state of emergency in at least 607 districts across 16 regions over imminent water shortages, with emergency measures coordinated by Indeci and ministries as El Niño conditions threaten river flows and reservoirs. El Niño Heat Watch: Experts warn 2026 is likely to be the hottest year on record as a powerful El Niño raises odds of record temperatures. Machu Picchu Pressure: Peru’s Comptroller General warned about visitor overload at Machu Picchu, adding to concerns about managing tourism and capacity. Transnational Crime: Peru confirmed an agreement between the FBI and Peruvian police to confront transnational crime, as regional efforts intensify against organized networks. Earthquake Insurance in Peru: Liberty Mutual Re and Safehub completed a first sensor-triggered parametric earthquake payout in Peru, paid 21 days after a M5.8 quake. Sports in Lima: The Lima Grand Prix judo draw is set ahead of major contests at Videna, with top athletes from across the Americas.