AGP Executive Report

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.

Port Modernization in Peru: DP World marked 20 years at Callao, investing about US$1 billion and now handling roughly 60% of Peru’s containerized cargo, with 2025 topping 2 million TEUs. Peru Security & Crime: Peru and La Salle police reported an arrest tied to July business burglaries in La Salle-Peru, with Allen Leek facing burglary charges. Transnational Crime Deal: Peru confirmed an agreement between the FBI and Peruvian police to confront transnational crime. Illicit Trade Study: A new Peru study links illegal secondhand clothing imports to smuggling networks, document fraud, corruption, and pollution, with Chile a major source. Aviation & Travel: Lima’s Jorge Chávez Airport opened a new domestic departure lounge, aiming to improve the experience for the fast-growing domestic market. Mining Watch: Xali Gold said it’s nearing key environmental permitting for a 3,000m diamond drill program at its Pico Machay project in Peru. Health & Community: Peru’s Alzheimer’s Caring Friends Support Group meets Aug. 17 at the Peru Public Library with a caregiving talk by Teepa Snow. El Niño Outlook: Reuters reports Latin America is bracing for a potentially record-strong El Niño, with knock-on effects for food exports and drought risks.

Security & Governance in Peru: President Keiko Fujimori asked Peruvians for “patience” and “trust,” saying her Cabinet will restore “order and tranquility” as she pushes a security plan and calls for better coordination among state agencies. Health Alert: Measles is surging across the Americas, with PAHO reporting Peru among the hardest-hit countries, as quarantine authorities raise alarms. Religious Tourism: Peru is positioning Pope Leo XIV’s Nov. 11–17 visit as a potential long-term boost for religious pilgrimage routes and local tourism. Culture & Community: Peru Public Library will open Sundays starting Sept. 13 for a one-year trial, expanding access for families, students, and working adults. Sports & Peru’s Talent Abroad: Para badminton standout Eniola Bolaji is training in Peru after a gold-medal performance, highlighting the country’s role as a regional sports hub. Local Peru Interest: Archaeologists report new findings tied to the Moche civilization, including ancient live-work ceramic studios.

Eclipse Watch: Spain is bracing for the Aug. 12 total solar eclipse, with crowds in villages like Burgos chasing the rare “daytime darkness” as the Moon’s shadow sweeps from Russia’s Arctic across Greenland and Iceland. Sports (Peru): Peru’s girls’ U17 team is in the FIVB World Championship spotlight in Chile, facing China in Pool B as the tournament heats up. Energy & Politics: Chevron has told Peru it plans to exit offshore blocks Z-61, Z-62 and Z-63 in the Trujillo Basin, putting Peru’s offshore oil plans to the test amid a fast political transition. Peru-Linked Travel: Forbes Travel Guide’s 2026 Edge List spotlights Belmond’s “Grand Tour of Peru,” a luxury rail-and-hotel journey through Peru’s ancient sites and landscapes. Health & Safety: ICE says it has responded after reports of medical and staffing failures at an Indiana prison holding immigration detainees. Regional Disaster Response: Peru’s President Fujimori is reported to have overseen a 12-ton aid shipment to Colombia after a major earthquake.

Colombia Quake Aid Clarification: After a 7.4-magnitude earthquake hit western Colombia, the government asked for humanitarian supplies but said rescue teams and medical services were already deployed, while countries including Peru offered support. Catholic Solidarity: Bishops from Peru and other Latin American countries sent prayers and condolences to Colombia’s Church and affected families. Peru-Centered Disaster Response: Peru’s government also moved to coordinate El Niño risk management and response efforts, as regional climate impacts keep pressure on infrastructure and services. Machu Picchu Discovery: Peru’s Ministry of Culture says LiDAR work near Machu Picchu revealed over 1.5 miles of hidden pre-Hispanic roads and possible terraces. Local Accountability: Peru residents demanded answers after sewer backups, with officials still unable to pinpoint the cause. Diplomacy Watch: Peru’s foreign ministry reported actions involving Russia-related citizen cases and meetings tied to regional cooperation.

Volleyball (U17 World Championship): Alas Pilipinas’ Sharina Rhyza Lleses and the Philippines were dealt a tough blow by Peru, losing 26-28, 25-22, 25-23, 25-20, leaving them needing a must-win over Venezuela to keep Round of 16 hopes alive. Diplomacy (Ukraine war): Peru summoned Russia’s ambassador to demand updated information on Peruvians who have died or are missing after being recruited to fight for Moscow, with families pushing for repatriation details. Politics (US pressure): Reports say Washington is pressing Peru’s Fujimori administration to align with US efforts against China, pointing to pro-US appointments in key posts. Culture (Mario Vargas Llosa): Reviews highlight Mario Vargas Llosa’s final novel, I Give You My Silence, described as a love letter to Peru’s music and identity. Sports (USMNT friendlies): The USMNT’s fall schedule includes a friendly vs Peru in Orlando on Sept. 26, bringing Peru back to the pitch after missing the World Cup.

El Niño & Ports: A new So far Ocean white paper warns El Niño is disrupting port operations worldwide, noting Peru’s maritime authority closed ports across southern, central and northern zones in July as anomalous swells hit 2–3 times normal. Peru War Recruitment: Peru’s Foreign Ministry confirmed 459 nationals enlisted to fight for Russia in Ukraine; it says 11 were killed, 114 missing, and 3 captured, while two were recently repatriated after forced recruitment claims. Amazon & Illegal Mining: Peru’s government is pushing a stronger crackdown on illegal gold mining in the Amazon, targeting the logistics routes that feed mining networks. Lima Heritage Find: Archaeologists uncovered remains of a 16th-century hospital and church in Lima’s historic center, tied to the Hospital and Church of the Holy Spirit. Peru in Global Travel: Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards put Peru’s Belmond Andean Explorer and Hiram Bingham trains at the top of the world’s best train journeys list. Sports (Peru Volleyball): Peru’s U17 women’s team faces the Philippines in a key Round of 16 push after the Philippines’ early pool shocks.