Nut production to increase 17%

In 2012 Chile should increase its production of walnuts 17%, overtaking France to become the fourth largest producer in the world.

The organization Chilenut estimates a total production of 46,000 tons in 2012, 17% more than this year. Exports are expected to reach 41,600 tons, a significant increase after 35,500 exported this year.

Chilenut explains this growth by better management of existing orchards and the increase in area planted. In 2005, orchards occupied 15,000 hectares, but in 2010 this figure was up to almost 25,000 hectares. This year the total is estimated at 27,000 hectares.

If Chile produces 46 000 tons in 2012, it will overtake France making it the fourth largest global producer of walnuts, behind China, the United States and Turkey.

source : chilenut cl