"The Chilean fruit market has achieved remarkable growth in recent years, driven by growing international demand and diversification of destinations. Chilean cherries have positioned themselves as one of the most desired products, especially in Asia, where countries such as China are showing a strong interest due to their festive New Year season," says Andrés Lazo, commercial manager of C&L Fruit.
C&L Fruit team.
The company is a fruit exporter specialized in the shipment of cherries, nectarines, peaches and plums. C&L Fruit is currently exporting around 2.4 million boxes of cherries, equivalent to 14 million kilos, mainly to the Chinese market, which receives 83% of the production. This market has become one of the most competitive, with high demand during the Chinese New Year, when cherries are especially appreciated. In addition to China, the United States and the United Kingdom are also key markets, although with different quality and price requirements.
"Growth prospects for the coming season point to a 60% increase in export volumes, driven by high demand and constant innovation in genetics and logistical processes," says Lazo.
As for stone fruits such as nectarines, peaches and plums, the company exports approximately 1.5 million boxes, distributed in similar proportions between Asia, the United States and Europe (30% each). C&L Fruit also handles 250,000 boxes of citrus fruits that complement its export supply to these same destinations.
Lazo says that "the price of exported cherries is currently similar to last season's, when they stood at really competitive levels, showing how highly-appreciated they are in international markets."
To protect the fruit's freshness, C&L Fruit resorts to innovations in controlled atmosphere packaging, allowing the product's shelf life for maritime transit to be extended to 36 days. However, logistics remains a significant challenge, especially given the recent increase in freight costs, which have grown by 44% in the last year due to container shortages and the global rise in transport costs.
The company has been implementing sustainable practices, transitioning to solar energy and pursuing a responsible use of water resources, and it has obtained certifications such as GlobalGAP and BRC. "We have been making an effort to innovate constantly, both in genetics, with new and tastier varieties, and in sustainability to maintain our competitive advantage in the market," says Lazo.
For more information:
Andrés Lazo
C&L Fruit
Rengo, VI Region, Chile
Tel.: +56 9 7377 7302
[email protected]
www.cylfruit.com