Positive projection for Argentine cherry season

The Argentine Chamber of Integrated Cherry Producers (CAPCI) is optimistic about the upcoming cherry season despite productivity setbacks caused by the unusually cold spring weather.

Aníbal Caminiti, CAPCI Director, highlights the high quality of the cherries. The main characteristic of this campaign is the delayed harvest, extending between 7-10 days beyond usual due to non-seasonal weather — minimal temperature fluctuations between day and night.

According to Caminiti, given stable weather conditions and full production capacity, they should recover exportable volumes lost in the previous season due to climatic effects, surpassing 6,000 tons. 

Some fields experienced losses ranging from 30% to 50%, particularly in the Rio Negro and Neuquén regions. Mendoza and Southern Patagonia were unaffected and continue with robust production.

Meteorological concerns have loomed over South American producers in 2023, primarily due to El Niño phenomenon, bringing heavy rains and higher temperatures. However, Caminiti highlighted the resilience of Argentine cherry producers in safeguarding early varieties, which are the most vulnerable to adverse weather.

Early varieties Nimba and Frisco have not been damaged, while varieties like Brooks, mainly cultivated in Mendoza, have also remained unscathed.

Approximately 50% of Argentina's cherry production will stay in the domestic market, with the rest exported to the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.