Updated forecast puts new grape varieties at the top of Chile’s exports

Chile’s table grape industry continues its shift towards new-generation varieties, which are expected to account for 72% of total exports in the 2025/26 season, according to the second export estimate released by the Table Grape Committee of Frutas de Chile.

Total exports are now forecast at 63.62 million 8.2 kg boxes, representing a 6.4% drop compared with last season, but a slight 0.5% increase versus the first estimate. The updated projection is based on broader industry participation, with 67 exporters now included, representing 86% of last season’s total volume.

New varieties are projected to exceed 45 million boxes, driven mainly by strong growth in two leading selections, which are both expected to post double-digit increases year on year. In contrast, traditional varieties are forecast to slightly exceed 8 million boxes, with several showing sharp declines. One long-established seedless variety is set for the steepest drop, while the main traditional red variety remains above 9 million boxes but continues to trend lower.

Regionally, Coquimbo and Valparaíso are expected to maintain stable volumes, while declines are forecast in Atacama, O’Higgins and the Metropolitan Region. Export timing is also expected to shift forward, with earlier peaks between weeks 6 and 10 and lower volumes later in the season.

By destination, Latin America is expected to grow by 20%, while shipments to Asia and North America are forecast to decline by 21% and 9%, respectively. Industry leaders noted that while new varieties remain the main growth engine, managing early-season logistics will be a key challenge this season.

source: frutasdechile.cl

photo: producereport.com