Early cherry harvest in Coquimbo targets Asia with 1,500-ton outlook

The cherry season has begun early in Chile’s Coquimbo region, where favorable climatic conditions allow growers to enter export markets ahead of other production zones. The early harvest is led by the Brooks variety, and the region expects to produce around 1,500 tons, one of its highest outputs in recent years.

Local industry representatives note that early-season timing allows Coquimbo cherries to reach Asia while prices remain strong. However, they emphasize that good post-harvest management, cold treatment, and coordinated logistics will be key to maintaining fruit firmness and quality on arrival.

According to ProChile Coquimbo, cherries have become a strategic crop for diversifying the region’s export basket. The fruit has shown strong demand internationally and meets the quality standards required by major markets. Export plans for this season prioritize China, Japan and South Korea, with additional interest from the Middle East, Europe, North America and Latin America.

National export performance also supports the momentum. In 2024, Chile’s cherry exports totaled USD 3.09 billion, up 50.6% year-on-year. Coquimbo contributed USD 13 million, nearly doubling its exports compared with the previous season.

Growers and exporters in the region aim to consolidate Coquimbo’s position as a reliable early-origin supplier. Success, they say, will depend on keeping consistent quality from orchard to destination and maintaining targeted promotional efforts in priority markets.

source: frutasdechile.cl

photo: smartcherry.cl