While Chilean cherries have conquered all the continents, exports are increasing also for other types of reference. Macfrut has become an ever more international event, and the main Chilean companies cannot afford to miss the exhibition in Rimini, Italy (8-10 May). Felipe Repetto, from the Chilean Trade Commission in Italy - ProChile - spoke on the subject.
Felipe Repetto
"Because of its geographical and climatic diversity," explains Repetto, "Chile is a major producer of a wide range of fruits and vegetables. It's the world's leading exporter of cherries, plums and fresh grapes, and among the top exporters of nuts, onions, blackberries, blueberries, kiwis and strawberries. Apples, avocados, hazelnuts, tangerines and peaches are also exported in significant volumes. Chilean agricultural products are renowned for their high standards of quality and food safety, as well as for the industry's innovation and sustainable practices. This sector has become increasingly important for our country's exports, with agricultural products accounting for around 23% of Chilean exports in 2023, making agriculture the country's leading export industry after mining."
Among the wide range of Chilean fruit and vegetables consumed around the world, cherries have become a top product. "In 2023, we exported more than $2 billion in value mainly to China, but also to the United States and other countries. Our table grapes are also an important driver of our country's agricultural sector, with $811 million in exports to the United States, China and Europe last year. Our plums and prunes are also growing globally, with exports worth almost $490 million in 2023, mainly to China and Europe. In general, our agricultural exports go mainly to China, the US and Europe."
As for 2023, "Chilean cherry exporters faced a difficult production scenario this season, mainly
due to the heavy rains last spring. This is the main reason why our cherry exports in 2023 fell slightly, by less than 4%, compared to 2022. However, the sector quickly recovered and in January 2024 we exported over $1,400 million to China, an increase of almost 31% compared to the same month last year. This shows that, thanks to their high quality and taste, the demand for Chilean cherries continues to grow. For Italy, $500,000 in exports represents a growth of 20% from 2022 to 2023."
At Macfrut, Chile will be presenting a group of companies (stand B1 - 112) that provide goods and services to agricultural companies. These include technological solutions, quality control, consultancy, packaging and more. Repetto concludes: "Because of our vast agricultural production, these Chilean companies have experience and know-how in this field and are ready to export their goods and services to agricultural producers worldwide. It is similar with our mining industry. As the industry's leading exporter, we have developed a global solution for these industries, with companies that help producers and exporters grow, simplify and streamline their processes."
For more information:
www.prochile.gob.cl