Chile is set for a massive cherry harvest this year, after several years of planning is finally paying off. Exports are expected to increase by 76%, with the United States set to import more than double the amount they did last year from the country. As Chile approaches their summer, supplies are due from now into the New Year.
"The Chilean cherry season is starting right about now," said Steve Pearson, of Bengard Marketing. "It looks to be a very good season, with the biggest crop they've ever had. We're expecting 30,000,000, 11lb boxes to be exported this season, which is up over last season's 17,000,000 boxes. Over the past 5-8 years, growers in Chile have been planning an increase in production and subsequently increased the amount of plantings each year. However, over the last 5 years, weather has impacted volumes. This year, however, the season is going perfectly and we are now seeing those anticipated yields coming through."Market ready for increased volumes
Despite this substantial increase in cherry volumes, the market appears ready to absorb the additional fruit. The majority of production will go to China, however Europe and the United States will also see a significant increase in volumes. The market will initially remain strong with the potential to moderately soften out once supply steadies.
"The markets will be fine despite the increase in volume," Pearson said. "In some markets, they might become more aggressive on pricing once we get into the break-bulk vessels in early January. All the major markets, including China, the US and Europe will receive proportionately more cherries than they usually do. China remains the biggest market and normally takes delivery of around 85%-90% of Chilean cherry exports. Last season, the United States imported over 1,000,000 boxes, and this year the forecast is for almost 3,000,000 boxes to be shipped here."
Other stone fruit from Chile also expected to do well
While cherries are getting all the attention, most other stone fruit coming in from Chile is seeing high quality as importers prepare for the season. Once the US season on stone fruits ceases and Chile enters their season, imports will begin and quality is looking high. "There are only a few plums, Asian pears, persimmons and pomegranates left in the US season," Pearson continued. "We are expecting stone fruit imports from Chile to begin in the New Year. These include peaches, nectarines, white nectarines and plums, among others. Quality is looking excellent thanks to excellent growing conditions, and we expect to see high volumes on those as well. Arrivals will begin in January and extend through to April, with plums continuing into May."
For more information:
Steve Pearson
Bengard Marketing
Tel: 310-605-5105