Supply & Demand
The market for alpacas has been restricted by a lack of supply, for a number of reasons:
- Alpacas reproduce relatively slowly (one baby cria per female annually, typically)
- Breeders often retain their offspring to build their herd
- Mass production via artificial insemination or embryo transplantation is not feasible
- The U.S. registry is closed to importation
Therefore . . . .
Demand for alpacas has increased dramatically every year since their introduction outside of South America. Markets in the U.S. and abroad for alpacas are growing, and show no signs of abating.
Alpaca Economic Tidbits
• Alpaca "compounding"; to see how your herd can grow over time click here!
• The payback period is slightly over 4 years
• Tax benefits - If you are ranching alpacas with the intent to make a profit, there are numerous tax benefits available to you.
• Alpaca fiber can be sold for a premium to artisans, and as the U.S. alpaca market enlarges, larger commercial mills will be more motivated to accomodate alpaca fleece in their production capabilities.
For details, contact us and we'll send you a free packet of information.
