Coca leaf production for traditional demand in the Alto Huallaga region

Until 1975, coca leaf production in Alto Huallaga was mainly destined to supply the traditional demand. Its main consumers were the peasants of Huánuco, Cerro de Pasco, Junín and Andean migrants in Lima and other departments of the northern coast. The business was profitable and many coastal and highland traders from the Upper Huallaga became a powerful group that controlled the coca market. In addition to controlling the coca market, these traders had control over groceries and basic necessities and became the owners of the means of transportation.