Chile is developing new varieties of table grapes.

During the last 14 years, the Asoex Fruit Technology Consortium was developing new fruit varieties, through the Genetic Improvement Programs for table grapes, stone fruit, raspberries, cherries and apples. It is a collaboration of ASOEX, the Catholic University of Chile, the Economic Development Agency of Chile (Corfo) and technical teams of exporting companies that belong to this program and the Consortium.

The objective of the program is to create varieties without seeds, with defined colors and with a long postharvest life. In addition, they have to be of low productive price, adapt to the requirements of Chilean companies, markets and the characteristics of the producing areas of Chile.

Patricio Arce, director of the Table Grape Genetic Improvement Program (PMG) of the Asoex Fruit Technology Consortium, commented that they use conventional genetic improvement, that is, between existing varieties and with crosses made by hand.

At the moment there are 3 advanced selections that soon could become varieties: a white, a black and a red one, which at the moment are cultivated between Copiapó and Rancagua. The commercial results are expected to be achieved in mid-2021.

Arce revealed that they have an advanced selection that could replace Flame, a variety that today has lost its importance from the point of consumers.

Jorge Torres, an agronomist for Vida Produce Company (VCP) and a member of the board of directors of the PMG, emphasized that there is an advanced seedless white selection with very good qualities. Also, there is an early red grape with a very striking color, that would fit well in Asian markets.

After its registration and launch, the variety will have a "management manual" that will help to know the variety better, and how and where it should be cultivated.

source: asoex