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In 1984, alpacas were imported into the
United States for the first time. Initially these animals
came from Bolivia and Chile, with subsequent imports from
Peru in 1993. In 1998 The Alpaca Registry Inc. (ARI) voted
to stop registration of new imports, which effectively meant
that new imports of animals ceased. A combination of historical
events has led to a United States herd of approximately
47,000 animals.
There are over 2,000 alpaca ranches and
farms in the continental U.S., but the demand for animals
and fiber continues to increase with prices for quality
animals remaining steady.
Owners and breeders vary from large ranches
with hundreds of animals to small farms with 2 or 3 animals.
Many owners decide to invest in animals over a period of
time and rely on ranches or farms to look
after their animals until they are ready to start their
own ranch. Many owners simply board their animals at a nearby
ranch permanently and get involved with the animals when
time permits. Whatever your choice investment in alpacas
can be financially and personally rewarding.
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Supply &
Demand Alpaca
Compounding ROI
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