Broccoli drives Chile’s vegetable seed export growth

Chile exported US$176 million in vegetable seeds during the first half of 2026, 20% more than in the same period last year, according to ODEPA.

Vegetable seeds accounted for only 1% of Chile’s horticultural export volume but generated 44% of the sector’s total export value.

Broccoli records strongest increase

Broccoli seed exports rose 69%, climbing from US$15 million in January-June 2025 to US$26 million this year. The product represented 15% of total vegetable seed export earnings.

Watermelon seeds remained the largest category, with a 17% share of value and growth of 45%. Cabbage seed exports increased 48%, while bunching onion seeds rose 13%.

The average export value of broccoli seed reached US$254 per kg, 5% below the previous year. For bunching onion seed, the average increased 21% to US$82 per kg.

The Netherlands, Japan and the United States were the leading markets during January-May. Broccoli and cabbage seeds led shipments to the Netherlands and the US, while Japan mainly purchased bunching onion seed.

source and photo: odepa.gob.cl