U.S. Embassy Awards Ocho Sur the Bicentennial Prize

20 April, 2026

In a ceremony reaffirming the historic cooperation between the United States and Peru, the U.S. Embassy in Peru presented the prestigious “U.S.–Peru Bicentennial Prize 1826–2026” to Ocho Sur and other institutions for their outstanding contributions to bilateral relations.

This distinction was awarded in the context of the 200th anniversary of U.S.–Peru diplomatic relations (1826–2026), a milestone during which both countries have deepened their ties in trade, security, and culture.

 

Recognizing Ocho Sur’s Commitment to Education and Research in the Amazon

The award highlights Ocho Sur’s dedication to strengthening education and scientific research in the Peruvian Amazon, as well as the company’s collaboration with the Fulbright Commission, which this year celebrates seven decades of academic engagement in Peru.

Through a partnership agreement signed in October 2025, Ocho Sur — a leader in sustainable palm oil production in Ucayali — funds scholarships enabling local university professors and Amazon researchers to undertake academic residencies at universities in the United States.

 

A Two-Way Knowledge Exchange for the Amazon Region

Thanks to this alliance, Peruvian scholars can travel to the United States for up to four months to deliver lectures, advance their studies, and connect with leading academics. The program also brings American researchers focused on Amazon ecosystem development to Peru, fostering a critical two-way flow of knowledge for the region.

 

Award Ceremony

The “U.S.–Peru Bicentennial Prize” was presented by Kristin Stewart, President of the Fulbright Commission and Counselor of the U.S. diplomatic mission in Peru, and received by Michael Spoor, Executive Director of Ocho Sur.

“This recognition honors us and reaffirms our vision that the sustainable development of Ucayali goes hand in hand with academic excellence and the exchange of global experiences,” said Spoor upon accepting the award.

Ocho Sur is a leading company in the sustainable production of palm oil in the Ucayali region, committed to regional economic development, social responsibility, and environmental conservation in the Peruvian Amazon.

Other institutions recognized alongside Ocho Sur include the Congress of the Republic, Asociación Los Andes de Cajamarca, ICPNA Chiclayo, Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde, the Cabieses Family, and Entrepreneurs from Universidad del Pacífico

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