Chilean cherry season 2023/24 ends with record shipments to China

The 2023/24 Chilean cherry season is closing with encouraging results, overcoming climatic challenges with a production that has been able to satisfy global demand, especially in China, its main market. 

 

Claudia Soler, from the Chilean Cherry Committee, highlights the excellent reception of the cherries, managing to export 413,979 tonnes, just 0.3% less than the previous year, with China receiving 377,000 tonnes, a record for the country. The Far East tops the list of destinations with 388,062 tonnes, followed by the United States (-14% in the East Coast and -52% in the West Coast), Latin America (-20%), Europe (-17%), Canada (-36%) and the Middle East (-61%).

 

The most exported varieties include Lapins, Santina and Regina, with more than 36 types of Chilean cherries reaching international markets. This year also saw an increase in air exports, especially to China, demonstrating the sector's capacity for adaptation and quality in the face of current challenges.

 

They highlight the resilience of the industry in the face of adverse conditions and the importance of Chilean cherries in the Asian market, reinforced by the synergy with the Chinese New Year and the solid commercial relations with the country. Logistical efforts have enabled innovations such as the Cherry Express to Tianjin, improving access to northern China and opening doors to new markets, such as India, with record shipping times.