epresentation from the US:

chief of mission: Ambassador P. Michael MCKINLEY
embassy: Avenida La Encalada, Cuadra 17s/n, Surco, Lima 33
mailing address: P. O. Box 1995, Lima 1; American Embassy (Lima),
APO AA 34031-5000
telephone: [51] (1) 434-3000
FAX: [51] (1) 618-2397

Flag description:

three equal, vertical bands of red (hoist side), white, and red with
the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms
features a shield bearing a vicuna, cinchona tree (the source of
quinine), and a yellow cornucopia spilling out gold coins, all
framed by a green wreath

Economy
Peru

Economy - overview:

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. Upon taking
office, President GARCIA announced Sierra Exportadora, a program
aimed at promoting economic growth in Peru's southern and central
highlands.

GDP (purchasing power parity):

$219.6 billion (2007 est.)

GDP (official exchange rate):

$109.1 billion (2007 est.)

GDP - real growth rate:

9% (2007 est.)

GDP - per capita (PPP):

$7,600 (2007 est.)

GDP - composition by sector:

agriculture: 8.4%
industry: 25.6%
services: 66% (2007 est.)

Labor force:

9.839 million (2007 est.)

Labor force - by occupation:

agriculture: 9%
industry: 18%
services: 73% (2001)

Unempl