Chilean garlic is playing an increasingly important role in international markets, especially in times of scarcity.
This year, the weather has brought both challenges and opportunities for Chilean garlic. "With 800 chilling hours recorded, compared to 400 in the previous year, the product's quality has significantly improved, although yields have decreased by 10%," says Nelson Cordero Arévalo, general manager of Comercializadora y Exportadora NCA.
"Despite this, class 1 garlic has accounted for 85% of the production, compared to 50% last year, which has led to a 40% increase in prices. The global market accepts high prices as long as a high quality product is supplied, and we have managed to position ourselves in this segment," says Cordero.
"It is worth noting that the price of Chilean garlic has improved significantly this year, mainly due to the global shortage of the product. Current prices range between 30 and 35 dollars per 10 kilo box, which is equivalent to approximately 3 to 3.5 dollars per kilo. This represents a 40% increase compared to last year; a growth driven by high demand, especially in Mexico, and a lower supply of garlic in key producing countries, such as China, Peru and Spain. This price adjustment further highlights the importance of keeping high quality standards to maximize the market value," says Cordero.
According to the producer and marketer, the success of Chilean garlic lies in the selection and production of high quality seeds, which have a low viral load, so the cultivation cycle is extended to 17 months. "This approach guarantees a higher quality final product. Our method, which includes the introduction of seeds from cold climates, has resulted in garlic with better color and a lower incidence of phytosanitary issues," says Cordero.
The Mexican market is the main destination for Chilean garlic, particularly between December and March, when the demand for fresh garlic is high due to the lack of local production. "We complement their supply period and offer them continuity, which allows us to satisfy a key need with a quality product. Other secondary markets, such as Brazil, depend on the available supply in Argentina, so Chile remains a key exporter for Mexico," says Cordero.
"The implementation of advanced techniques, such as technified irrigation and an optimized post-harvest system, has improved both the quality and shelf-life of Chilean garlic. However, the agricultural sector faces challenges such as the lack of labor, especially in rural areas, which has led to the incorporation of foreign workers and the temporary hiring of around 100 people during the harvest," says the manager.
"Looking ahead, Chilean garlic producers aim not only to maintain their position in the international market, but also to diversify their production, trying new crops such as special onions," says Cordero.
For more information:
Nelson Cordero Arévalo
NCA - Comercializadora y Exportadora
Quinta de Tilco
Sixth Region, Chile
Tel.: +56 9 5228 0382
[email protected]