In celebration of the “International Year of the Camelids 2024,” the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI), through the Agro Rural program, inaugurated the first-ever Hilamos Perú event. This National Artisan Camelid Fiber Salon opened its doors to the public at the Parque de la Exposición in Lima, located on Av. 28 de Julio, from December 13th to 15th. The event aims to honor and promote alpaca breeders while showcasing the cultural richness and economic potential of camelid fiber.
The opening ceremony was led by Minister Angel Manero, accompanied by Vladimir Cuno, the acting Executive Director of Agro Rural. Minister Manero highlighted the event’s significance, explaining that Hilamos Perú allows visitors to appreciate the beauty, versatility, and value of this unique fiber. Renowned for its softness, luxury, durability, and warmth, camelid fiber has captivated generations and remains an essential part of Peru’s heritage.
“With over 5 million alpacas, Peru holds tremendous potential,” said Minister Manero. “We have made significant progress in improving the technical capabilities of shearing, spinning, and weaving. This event reaffirms MIDAGRI’s commitment to strengthening market development, both nationally and internationally.”
The event seeks to promote knowledge exchange, innovation, and the commercialization of products made from natural fibers, further emphasizing the biodiversity richness that Peru offers. Hilamos Perú serves as an ideal space for artisans and producers to share their experiences and refine their craft, helping to create new opportunities for growth and sustainability in the fiber industry.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Alpaca Fiber
More than 30 alpaca breeders from the regions of Arequipa, Puno, Cusco, and Pasco participated in this groundbreaking event. These breeders are beneficiaries of the public investment project Improvement of Services for the Increase of Primary Added Value of Alpaca Fiber for Alpaca Farmers. The project aims to improve the ability of alpaca breeders to enhance the quality and value of alpaca fiber, with the ultimate goal of reaching 8,000 alpaca breeders from these four regions by 2026.
The alpaca breeders not only raise alpacas but also process their high-quality fiber to transform it into beautiful handmade yarn and garments. These creations were on display at the first edition of Hilamos Perú, where the public could admire and purchase the artisans’ works. The event attracted both local and international visitors, with more than 25,000 people expected to attend.
Traditional Skills and Economic Impact
The artisanal spinning of camelid fibers such as alpaca, llama, and vicuña has been a millennia-old tradition in Peru. Passed down through generations, the knowledge and skill to transform these fibers into exquisite fabrics are a testament to the deep cultural connection between Andean communities and their land.
Hilamos Perú aims to reinforce Peru’s cultural identity by revaluing the work of artisans. The event also fosters economic opportunities for alpaca producers and artisans while promoting responsible consumption. Additionally, the event strives to position camelid fiber as a premium resource in the ethical and sustainable fashion market, both in Peru and internationally.
The event agenda includes a variety of activities such as free workshops, talks, an exhibition of creative works, and hands-on experiences. Visitors can witness expert alpaca breeders in action, transforming alpaca fiber into high-quality yarn. These workshops allow participants to learn about the intricate processes of spinning, dyeing, and weaving, and gain a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship involved in creating products from camelid fibers.
Interactive Experiences and Family Fun
In addition to the educational aspects of the event, Hilamos Perú features a series of interactive and fun activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. The event includes a photobooth area for visitors to capture memories, roaming living statues, a musical space, and more. These attractions provide a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, ensuring that families can have a great time together while learning about the cultural and economic importance of camelid fiber.
By creating an event that celebrates the artistry and economic potential of camelid fibers, Hilamos Perú plays an important role in promoting sustainable and ethical fashion. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Peru and the invaluable contributions of alpaca breeders. With the support of Agro Rural and the continued development of alpaca fiber processing techniques, the future of Peruvian camelid fiber looks bright, both on the national and international stage.
As Peru continues to celebrate the Year of the Camelids, events like Hilamos Perú demonstrate the growing recognition of the importance of alpaca and other camelid fibers. These fibers are not only a cornerstone of Peru’s cultural identity but also hold immense economic potential that can support the livelihoods of countless alpaca breeders across the country. Hilamos Perú is more than just a trade show; it is a celebration of tradition, sustainability, and the future of an industry that has long been woven into the fabric of Peruvian life.
