As a result of the lower volume of table grapes available in the central area of the country, the Table Grape Committee of the Association of Fruit Exporters of Chile AG (ASOEX) decided to carry out a sixth forecast of the season. According to this new forecast, the country will export 64,518,065 standard boxes of 8.2 kilos, i.e. 13.2% less than in the previous season and 4% less than estimated in the fifth forecast made less than a month ago.
The new forecast indicates that, despite the fall, Chile will maintain its focus on new varieties, as they will account for 54% of the product exported, stated Ivan Marambio, the president of ASOEX. This new estimate projects that 34,788,400 boxes will be of new table grape varieties; 18,591,491 boxes of traditional varieties, and 11,138,173 boxes of Red Globe grapes.
According to Ignacio Caballero, marketing director of ASOEX and Coordinator of the Table Grape Committee, the decrease in volumes is due to a decrease in the central region of Chile, mainly due to climate issues. “North America and Asia are the main markets for Chilean grapes, concentrating around 80% of all shipments. We hope that with this new estimate, we can reduce the pressure on the US market and that there is a greater diversification to other markets, especially considering the significant late volume of grapes that Peru is sending to this destination,” he stated.
According to the forecast, North America will receive 35,919,879 boxes of table grapes, Asia will receive 13,838,353 boxes, and Europe will receive 9,165,309 boxes. Shipments are expected to peak from week 7 to week 12 this season.
Exports to date
According to the latest market report of the Table Grape Committee of ASOEX, Chile has exported 23,903,222 boxes of fresh tables by week 8-2023, i.e. 17% more than by the same date last season. This increase, however, is due to the significant delay of the season there was in the previous season.
North America has received 73% of all Chilean fresh grape shipments, followed by China-Hong Kong, and Europe with 6%, respectively. Other markets in Asia have received 7% of the volume, Latin America 5%, and other destinations 3%.
For more information:
ASOEX
www.asoex.cl