What to expect from Chile's summer fruit season

Southern Hemisphere producers are kicking off the summer fruit season with cherries and blueberries, followed by plums, nectarines, peaches, and grapes. Chile, a leader in the sector, anticipates record-breaking export figures.

Key figures for the Chilean season

Cherries are projected to see a 50% increase in exports, reaching over 120 million boxes. They represent 27% of the country's fresh fruit exports, with China as the primary destination and the United States second.

Blueberry harvest is estimated at 135,501 tons (+3.2%), with 80,501 tons for fresh fruit (-6.7%) and 55,000 tons frozen (+22.2%). New varieties, accounting for 26% of shipments, are larger and firmer, improving quality and reducing waste.

Table grape production is expected to reach 66,006,178 boxes (+2.4%), with new varieties making up 65% of the volume. Approximately 60% of exports are destined for the United States. This year, for the first time, shipments will utilize the Systems Approach protocol, eliminating fumigation in key regions like Tarapacá and Coquimbo.

With table grape production stabilizing at 60-65 million boxes, the sector anticipates strong revenue to drive orchard renewal with modern varieties.

Source: simfruit.cl Photo: guioteca.com