Chile has strengthened its presence in the Japanese market with a significant increase in lemon exports. By week 31 of this year, the country had exported 56,324 tons of lemons, representing a 32% increase compared to the same period in 2023, according to Monserrat Valenzuela, Executive Director of the Chilean Citrus Committee.

Globally, most of Chile’s lemon exports have been directed to the United States, which received 61.9% of the total volume, equivalent to 34,868 tons. Asia follows, absorbing 34.7% of the exports, with Japan as the main destination in the region, receiving 14,349 tons. Europe and Latin America received 3% and 0.4%, respectively.

Japan is the second most important destination for Chilean lemons, only behind the United States. During the 2023 season, the U.S. accounted for 62% of the total exported volume, followed by Japan with 25%. South Korea and Europe completed the list with 8% and 4%, respectively.

Chile has maintained a steady volume of lemon exports to Japan in recent years, with slight variations. For example, in 2020, Chile exported 90,850 tons of lemons globally, of which 18,306 tons were sent to Japan. In 2023, total exports decreased to 67,545 tons, but the Japanese market remained a key destination, receiving 17,028 tons.

Growth Prospects in Japan

Valenzuela highlighted that Japan is a highly demanding market where quality and consistency are crucial for maintaining and expanding Chile’s presence. Currently, the U.S. and Chile dominate the lemon market in Japan, with a market share of 41% and 38%, respectively. Although other countries like Australia and South Africa have a smaller presence, with 6% and 5%, Valenzuela emphasized that Chile can remain competitive by continuing to offer high-quality lemons.

Chile takes advantage of the demand window in Japan from May to September, when U.S. supply decreases. This period is crucial for Chilean exports, as it allows them to meet the strong demand during the Japanese summer months. However, Valenzuela warned that competition with other Southern Hemisphere countries, such as South Africa and Australia, is a challenge that must be met with a strategy focused on quality and food safety.

source: simfruit.cl