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Economic Information

Mining, agriculture, industry, and fisheries are the main components of the Peruvian economy. While the development of mining and industry over the past three decades has been very substantial, that of agriculture, especially for the domestic market, has been slow.

The GNP per capita was $ 1,470 in 1987 and has grown in recent years at an average annual rate of approximately 8 percent. The unemployment rate was 8.2 percent in the same year. Underemployment, however, is very widespread and, in the mid-1950s was estimated to affect 51 percent of the workers. The inflation rate was 114% in 1987. Tourism is assuming a growing importance in Peru's economy

Peruvian Currency

The official currency of Peru is "El Nuevo Sol" (s/.) divided in 100 cents. Coins as 10, 20 and 50 cents as 1, 2 and 5 Nuevo Sol are in circulation and 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 Nuevo Sol are also in circulation. (Be careful about obtaining bogus coins and notes).

The American Dollar is accepted in the majority of commercial locals, restaurants and service stations along the day. There are Foreign Exchange Office that uses all the kinds of currency, especially with American Dollars and Euros.

Some restaurants, hotels and establishments accept Credit Cards: Visa, Masterd Card, Diners and American Express. The use of Travelers Checks is limited because a few of banks and hotels accept them; ask before to use them to know if they are accepted.