Chile at the PMA
Chilean exports to North America increased
The Chilean pavilion was one of the most prominent at the event, covering 232 square metres.
"With this action we begin to close the year on promotional activities for fresh fruit in the main destination of our exports - of over USD 4 billion of exported Chilean fresh fruit to the world in 2011, USA represents more than 40% in FOB value of USD 1,600 million - however, it is both the commercial preamble for the new season 2012-2013, whose expectations are still rising. PMA Fresh Summit has been considered a high-impact action for the purpose of generating other peripheral actions that ensure a better commercial showcase for the sector such as advertising activities, networking with over 300 participants and targeted promotion. Finally, we are pleased that this year we have taken important steps into creating a brand for the sector "Fruits From Chile," a private public work which we have generated for the benefit of the industry," says Francisco Correa, Trade Commissioner of Chile in Los Angeles.
"Fruits from Chile" is the image developed jointly by the Department of Export Promotion (ProChile) and Chilean Exporters Association (ASOEX). The initiative highlights the benefits of the origin, product quality and the character of Chilean workers, key factors that have led to turn Chile into a world leader in the fruit business. This strategy is consistent with the new brand image of the country and in accord with the Chilean fruit industry and its related sectors. Thus, we seek to enhance the penetration and development of the Chilean supply to its main destinations, without losing the individuality of each industry and maintaining Chile as a backup seal and visible support.
In order to achieve these guidelines important stakeholders of the Chilean fruit industry worked closely, including the blueberries, kiwis, cherries, Hass Avocado, Citrus Committees, which were also present at the Chilean pavilion, with individual exhibitions of their products.
According to figures from the Chilean Exporters Association, the export volume to the United States and Canada grew by 0.1% in the 2011-2012 season, compared to the previous one and has remained the largest market for the fruit sector.
Shipments of fresh fruit to the United States between September 1st, 2011 to August 31st, 2012, reached 862,594 tons. Table grapes, apples and avocados were the most exported Chilean species to that market.
Among fruits shipped to the United States, highlight increases in shipments of apples with 34.5%, followed by oranges with a growth of 55.1%, kiwi with 32.1% and clementines which increased by 10.8%.
Source: sacbee.com